Open the App

Subjects

Exploring the 'Remains' Poem by Simon Armitage: Simple Analysis and Themes for Kids

6

0

user profile picture

hollie

21/11/2025

English Literature

remains poem notes

437

21 Nov 2025

2 pages

Exploring the 'Remains' Poem by Simon Armitage: Simple Analysis and Themes for Kids

user profile picture

hollie

@hollieaw

The poem "Remains" by Simon Armitage explores the psychological impact... Show more

Remains
1
5
Simon
Armitage
(b. 1963)
.
•7 quatrains
last stanza is a
•half rhyme.
• anecdote
.
On another occasion, we get sent out
to tackl

Page 1: Setting the Scene and the Violent Encounter

The first page of the "Remains" poem analysis introduces the setting and the central incident. The speaker, a soldier, recounts an encounter with looters raiding a bank. The use of colloquial language immediately establishes an informal, personal tone.

The poem begins with uncertainty, as the speaker describes pursuing a looter who is "probably armed, possibly not." This ambiguity sets the stage for the moral complexity of the situation. The repetition of "somebody else" emphasizes the collective action and shared responsibility of the soldiers.

Example: The line "Three of a kind all letting fly" uses gambling imagery to describe the soldiers' unified action, suggesting a sense of chance and risk in their decision to open fire.

The violence is described in vivid, disturbing detail. The speaker sees "every round as it rips through his life" and observes the looter "sort of inside out" on the ground. This graphic imagery serves to underscore the brutal reality of war and its psychological impact on the soldiers involved.

Highlight: The caesura (pause) in the line "End of story, except not really" marks a turning point in the poem, signaling that the physical encounter may be over, but its psychological effects are ongoing.

The poem then shifts to the aftermath, introducing the concept of the "blood-shadow" that remains on the street. This powerful metaphor represents the lasting imprint of violence on both the physical landscape and the speaker's psyche.

Quote: "His blood-shadow stays on the street, and out on patrol / I walk right over it week after week."

Remains
1
5
Simon
Armitage
(b. 1963)
.
•7 quatrains
last stanza is a
•half rhyme.
• anecdote
.
On another occasion, we get sent out
to tackl

"Remains" by Simon Armitage: A Powerful Exploration of War's Psychological Impact

"Remains" is a haunting poem by Simon Armitage that delves into the psychological aftermath of war. This analysis explores the poem's structure, language, and themes, offering insights into its portrayal of trauma and guilt.

Key points:

  • The poem consists of 7 quatrains with a half-rhyme structure
  • It uses colloquial language to create an authentic voice
  • Themes include PTSD, guilt, and the lasting impact of violence
  • The poem is part of the Power and Conflict Poetry Anthology

Highlight: The poem's raw, conversational tone effectively conveys the speaker's trauma and inner turmoil.

Quote: "His blood-shadow stays on the street, and out on patrol / I walk right over it week after week."

Vocabulary: PTSD PostTraumaticStressDisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder - A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event.



We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

English Literature

437

21 Nov 2025

2 pages

Exploring the 'Remains' Poem by Simon Armitage: Simple Analysis and Themes for Kids

user profile picture

hollie

@hollieaw

The poem "Remains" by Simon Armitage explores the psychological impact of war on a soldier, focusing on a specific incident involving looters. The speaker recounts the event and its lasting effects on his mental state, highlighting themes of trauma, guilt,... Show more

Remains
1
5
Simon
Armitage
(b. 1963)
.
•7 quatrains
last stanza is a
•half rhyme.
• anecdote
.
On another occasion, we get sent out
to tackl

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 1: Setting the Scene and the Violent Encounter

The first page of the "Remains" poem analysis introduces the setting and the central incident. The speaker, a soldier, recounts an encounter with looters raiding a bank. The use of colloquial language immediately establishes an informal, personal tone.

The poem begins with uncertainty, as the speaker describes pursuing a looter who is "probably armed, possibly not." This ambiguity sets the stage for the moral complexity of the situation. The repetition of "somebody else" emphasizes the collective action and shared responsibility of the soldiers.

Example: The line "Three of a kind all letting fly" uses gambling imagery to describe the soldiers' unified action, suggesting a sense of chance and risk in their decision to open fire.

The violence is described in vivid, disturbing detail. The speaker sees "every round as it rips through his life" and observes the looter "sort of inside out" on the ground. This graphic imagery serves to underscore the brutal reality of war and its psychological impact on the soldiers involved.

Highlight: The caesura (pause) in the line "End of story, except not really" marks a turning point in the poem, signaling that the physical encounter may be over, but its psychological effects are ongoing.

The poem then shifts to the aftermath, introducing the concept of the "blood-shadow" that remains on the street. This powerful metaphor represents the lasting imprint of violence on both the physical landscape and the speaker's psyche.

Quote: "His blood-shadow stays on the street, and out on patrol / I walk right over it week after week."

Remains
1
5
Simon
Armitage
(b. 1963)
.
•7 quatrains
last stanza is a
•half rhyme.
• anecdote
.
On another occasion, we get sent out
to tackl

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

"Remains" by Simon Armitage: A Powerful Exploration of War's Psychological Impact

"Remains" is a haunting poem by Simon Armitage that delves into the psychological aftermath of war. This analysis explores the poem's structure, language, and themes, offering insights into its portrayal of trauma and guilt.

Key points:

  • The poem consists of 7 quatrains with a half-rhyme structure
  • It uses colloquial language to create an authentic voice
  • Themes include PTSD, guilt, and the lasting impact of violence
  • The poem is part of the Power and Conflict Poetry Anthology

Highlight: The poem's raw, conversational tone effectively conveys the speaker's trauma and inner turmoil.

Quote: "His blood-shadow stays on the street, and out on patrol / I walk right over it week after week."

Vocabulary: PTSD PostTraumaticStressDisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder - A mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

6

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Wordsworth's Winter Imagery

Explore the vivid winter imagery in William Wordsworth's 'The Prelude'. This analysis delves into key themes such as nature, nostalgia, and the contrast between warmth and cold. Discover how Wordsworth uses similes, verbs, and adjectives to evoke emotions and depict the beauty of winter. Ideal for students studying Romantic poetry and literary devices.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

War Poetry Analysis

Explore the poignant themes of Thomas Hardy's 'A Wife in London' alongside a comparative analysis with 'The Manhunt'. This study note delves into the emotional impact of war, the use of pathetic fallacy, and the irony of hope versus tragedy. Ideal for GCSE students studying war poetry, it provides insights into the psychological effects of conflict on soldiers and their families.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Exploring PTSD in 'The Manhunt'

Dive into Simon Armitage's poignant poem 'The Manhunt', which captures the emotional and physical scars of a soldier returning from war. This analysis highlights key metaphors, such as the 'foetus of metal' and 'sweating, unexploded mine', illustrating the profound impact of PTSD on relationships. Ideal for students studying war poetry, this summary provides context, key quotes, and insights into the struggles faced by veterans and their loved ones.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Childhood Loss in Poetry

Explore the poignant themes of childhood loss and grief in Robert Frost's 'Out, Out-' and Seamus Heaney's 'The Summer of Lost Rachel'. This comparative essay delves into the poets' distinct approaches to depicting premature death, emotional responses, and the role of nature in their works. Ideal for CCEA students studying the Heaney and Frost poetry anthology.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
13

Macbeth Act 1 Scene 3 Insights

Explore the pivotal moments of Act 1 Scene 3 in Shakespeare's Macbeth, focusing on themes of ambition, supernatural influences, and the foreshadowing of betrayal. This analysis highlights key motifs, character dynamics, and the role of the witches in shaping Macbeth's fate. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding of the text.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Monotony of Motherhood

Explore the themes of identity, routine, and the passage of time in Philip Larkin's poem 'Afternoons'. This analysis delves into the emotional landscape of mothers, their loss of self, and the societal expectations of the 1960s. Key concepts include love, relationships, and the impact of gender roles on family dynamics. Ideal for students studying poetry and gender studies.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
11

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user