Poem of the week: Leaves by Frederic Manning

Published on November 10, 2025, Frederic Manning's poem 'Leaves' presents a delicate scene of nature, characterized by mist and stillness, just before the outbreak of the First World War. This juxtaposition of serene imagery against the backdrop of impending conflict serves to emphasize the fragility of peace. The poem reflects on how beauty can exist in moments of calm, even as the threat of war looms. This theme resonates with historical contexts, reminding readers of the stark contrasts experienced during wartime, where tranquility is often shattered by violence. Manning's work invites reflection on the nature of peace and the inevitable disruptions that accompany human conflict, making it a poignant piece in the literary landscape of war poetry.