I also nearly passed this one. Probably should have considering my state of mind. Reminds me of one of my early English literature classes - discussions of poems by some who couldn't relate. But were seriously trying to envision what those eyes had seen.

Kind of like my Colonel, the worst thing that has ever happened to him is his leave being canceled due to the war starting. He cried about that. Then asked me if I'd been close to people getting killed.

It's as tough a question for combat vets as "Did you kill anyone?" Leaves the minds eye focused in a not so good space.

I guess I'd say the casualness of the lines - what he was seeing in the gassed man's face - was as important as someone losing their boots. It all gets a little blury to me. And in those times what is important is casual in a sense. I really liked that first poem. It struck me as real. And that he recalled it so clearly and was able to put that into other's minds and hearts. What a gift.

Steve