Meaning: This quote from Wilfred Owen, the renowned English poet and soldier who served in World War I, reflects the profound impact of literature and the written word on the human spirit, particularly in times of adversity and conflict. In this poignant statement, Owen expresses the belief that the preservation and continuation of the language and artistic legacy of great poets like John Keats can serve as a source of strength and resilience for individuals facing the horrors of war.

Wilfred Owen himself is widely recognized for his powerful and evocative war poetry, which vividly captures the brutal realities and emotional toll of armed conflict. Having experienced the brutality of World War I firsthand, Owen's writings often convey a deep sense of disillusionment and the futility of war, while also celebrating the enduring power of human creativity and expression.

In the quote, Owen suggests that the literary heritage embodied in the works of poets like Keats provides a profound connection to a broader cultural and artistic tradition. By invoking the names of literary figures such as Keats, Owen highlights the enduring significance of their contributions to the English language and the broader literary canon. He implies that the act of perpetuating and upholding this rich literary tradition can instill a sense of purpose and fortitude, even in the face of unimaginable hardship and peril.

Moreover, Owen's words underscore the notion that literature and language possess a transcendent quality that can transcend the immediate horrors of war and offer solace and inspiration to those caught in its grip. By invoking the language in which Keats and other poets wrote, Owen articulates a belief in the enduring power of words to sustain the human spirit and provide a sense of continuity and connection to the broader cultural heritage.

Beyond the immediate context of war, Owen's sentiment also speaks to the enduring value of artistic and literary expression as a force for resilience and preservation. In times of great upheaval and turmoil, literature and the written word can serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring capacity of human creativity and imagination.

Owen's own legacy as a poet and soldier serves as a testament to the enduring impact of his words and the profound resonance of his message. Through his poetry, he continues to inspire generations with his unflinching portrayal of the human experience in the crucible of war, while also affirming the enduring power of literature to sustain and uplift the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Wilfred Owen's quote encapsulates the profound significance of literature and the written word as a source of strength and continuity in the face of adversity. By invoking the language of great poets like Keats, Owen underscores the enduring power of literary heritage to sustain and inspire individuals in the most challenging of circumstances. His words serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of literature and the written word, and the profound connection between artistic expression and the resilience of the human spirit.