Meaning: This quote by Wilfred Owen, the renowned English poet and soldier, reflects his deep fascination with the idea of serving in the military and experiencing the realities of war in the East. Wilfred Owen is best known for his war poetry, which vividly depicts the horrors and futility of World War I. Born in 1893, Owen enlisted in the British Army in 1915 and served as a soldier during the war. His experiences on the front lines deeply influenced his writing, and his poems provide a poignant and often harrowing portrayal of the human cost of war.

In this quote, Owen expresses his longing to be in the East, to witness combat first-hand, and to actively participate in the service. The phrase "after all my years of playing soldiers" suggests that Owen's interest in the military and warfare began in childhood, as is the case with many young boys who engage in games of pretend combat. This early fascination with the idea of being a soldier is then juxtaposed with his later immersion in the study of history, indicating a scholarly interest in the subject matter. The combination of these two influences has led to what Owen describes as "almost a mania" to be in the East.

The East, in this context, likely refers to the theaters of war in the Eastern Front during World War I, particularly the regions of the Middle East and the Balkans where significant military engagements took place. Owen's desire to be in the East reflects a yearning for direct experience, an urge to move beyond the theoretical and historical understanding of war to a more visceral and personal encounter with its realities.

The phrase "to see fighting, and to serve" encapsulates Owen's dual motivation. He seeks not only to witness the brutalities of war but also to actively contribute through service. This desire to serve is indicative of Owen's sense of duty and his willingness to participate in the conflict rather than observe from a distance. It also speaks to the idealism and patriotism that often motivate individuals to join the military, especially during times of war.

It is important to note that this quote should be interpreted within the context of Wilfred Owen's life and the historical period in which he lived. World War I, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that resulted in unprecedented levels of destruction and loss of life. The war had a profound impact on the individuals who lived through it, and Owen's own experiences as a soldier undoubtedly shaped his perspective on warfare and its human toll.

Overall, Wilfred Owen's quote provides insight into his complex relationship with the concept of war. It captures his yearning for direct experience, his sense of duty and service, and his deeply ingrained fascination with the realities of combat. Through his poetry and personal writings, Owen continues to serve as a powerful voice against the glorification of war and a poignant reminder of its devastating consequences.