Jill Hamilton. From Gallipoli to Gaza: the desert poets of World War I.

From Gallipoli to Gaza explores the history of the British campaign against the Turkish in World War I in a new and revealing way--through the eyes of the soldier-poets. Every piece of poetry included in this history was written by a soldier in the ANZAC or British forces, who took an active part in the campaigns in Gallipoli, Egypt, Palestine, Mesopotamia or Syria. Poetry by non-combatants or 'armchair' poets, along with retrospective thoughts on the events of the war, have not been included. Much of the poetry included in this book has never before been printed, discovered by the author and other interested parties in archives and personal memorabilia. Other poetry had been serf-published, published in single editions, or had become famous over time and had run into many editions and volumes.

Some prolific and well known soldier-poets such as Geoffrey Dearmer, Harley Matthews, Rupert Brooke, Siegfried Sassoon and 'Banjo' Paterson are explored in depth in this book, but many other less well-known poets are also represented, and it is clear that the author has taken care to select poetry for its merit rather than its fame.

While some poetry shows a scholarly connection with Greek history and literature, short satires and limericks are also featured, as well as earthy poetry in the simple language of farmers and workmen. The breathtaking poetry of Adelaide-born poet Leon Gellert is deservedly featured heavily in this book, and provides a strong vein throughout.

The author's historical narrative provides a fitting and detailed background to the well-rounded selection of poetry, creating a story that the soldier-poets can proudly call their own.