Dear Mr. Kilmer

1. Richard's Compassion Sets Him Apart

I didn’t feel like I had the right to kill him.

Unconventional Sensitivity. Richard Knight, unlike his father and brother, possesses a deep empathy for living creatures, making him unable to participate in hunting. This sets him apart from his family and peers in rural Iowa during World War I, highlighting his unique sensitivity and moral compass.

Moral Dilemma: Richard's refusal to kill the deer creates conflict within his family, particularly with his brother Gus, who struggles to understand Richard's feelings. This incident underscores Richard's internal struggle to reconcile his values with the expectations of his community.

• Richard's father acknowledges his son's feelings, stating that he has "never shot an animal without grieving at least a little," revealing a hidden depth beneath his stoic exterior.
• Gus criticizes Richard for not fitting in, reflecting the societal pressure to conform to traditional masculine roles.

Defining Trait: Richard's compassion is not a weakness but a defining trait that shapes his interactions and decisions throughout the novel. It influences his relationships, his poetry, and his response to the prejudice and intolerance surrounding him.

2. Poetry as a Refuge and a Voice

It was almost as if- his poem took away some of that old sadness.

Emotional Outlet: Poetry serves as a refuge for Richard, allowing him to express his innermost thoughts and feelings, particularly those he cannot share openly with his family or community. It becomes a way for him to process his emotions and make sense of the world around him.

Secret World: Richard keeps his poetry hidden, fearing ridicule and misunderstanding from those around him. This secrecy underscores his vulnerability and the societal stigma associated with artistic expression, especially for young men in a rural, working-class environment.

• Richard locks his poems in a desk drawer, symbolizing his need to protect his creative self from external judgment.
• He burns drafts of his poems to prevent others from discovering his passion.

Finding Connection: Through his correspondence with Joyce Kilmer, Richard discovers that poetry can be a powerful means of connecting with others and finding solace in shared experiences. Kilmer's encouragement validates Richard's artistic pursuits and inspires him to embrace his identity as a poet.

3. The Impact of War on a Small Town

America will be in this war real soon. I can’t wait to get into the Army and see some of that action.

Shifting Priorities: The outbreak of World War I profoundly impacts the small town of Turtle Lake, Iowa, disrupting daily life and introducing new anxieties and prejudices. The war becomes a constant topic of conversation, influencing people's attitudes and behaviors.

Patriotism and Fear: The war fuels a surge of patriotism, but also breeds fear and suspicion, particularly towards those perceived as "different" or "un-American." This atmosphere of intolerance leads to acts of vandalism and discrimination against German-American families like the Schermers.

• Gus eagerly anticipates joining the Army, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for military service.
• Richard grapples with the horrors of war, contrasting with Gus's romanticized view.

Erosion of Community: The war strains the social fabric of Turtle Lake, dividing neighbors and creating an environment of distrust and animosity. This division highlights the destructive impact of war on communities and the importance of empathy and understanding in times of conflict.

4. Finding Courage to Stand Against Prejudice

Well, I don’t think that being mean to Hannah is being patriotic.

Moral Stand: Richard demonstrates remarkable courage by standing up against the prejudice and discrimination directed towards Hannah Schermer and her family. He challenges the prevailing attitudes of his peers and defends the Schermers' right to be treated with respect and dignity.

Social Isolation: Richard's decision to sign the card for the Schermers and later to decline the role of the Doughboy results in social isolation and ridicule from his classmates. This underscores the personal cost of standing up for one's beliefs in the face of societal pressure.

• Richard endures insults and taunts from Abner and Harry, who accuse him of being a "Hun lover" and a "traitor."
• He is ostracized by his peers, who fear being associated with him.

Personal Integrity: Despite the negative consequences, Richard remains steadfast in his commitment to justice and fairness. His actions demonstrate the importance of personal integrity and the power of one individual to make a difference in the face of injustice.

5. The Power of Connection Through Letters

It must be hard keeping your poetic dreams to yourself.

Bridging Distance: The exchange of letters between Richard and Joyce Kilmer creates a powerful connection between two individuals from different backgrounds and generations. Their correspondence transcends geographical distance and societal barriers, fostering a sense of mutual understanding and support.

Mentorship and Validation: Kilmer serves as a mentor to Richard, offering encouragement, guidance, and validation for his poetic aspirations. Kilmer's letters provide Richard with a sense of purpose and inspire him to embrace his identity as a poet.

• Kilmer praises Richard's poems and offers helpful suggestions for revision.
• He shares his own experiences and struggles, creating a sense of camaraderie with Richard.

Emotional Support: The letters provide both Richard and Kilmer with emotional support during a time of great uncertainty and upheaval. Their correspondence becomes a lifeline, offering solace, inspiration, and a reminder of the enduring power of human connection.

6. Kilmer's Influence on Richard's Identity

You mustn’t let fear of ridicule imprison you and make you deny who you really are.

Embracing Authenticity: Joyce Kilmer's letters encourage Richard to embrace his true self and to overcome his fear of ridicule. Kilmer's words inspire Richard to share his poetry with others and to stand up for his beliefs, even when it means facing social isolation.

Finding a Role Model: Kilmer serves as a role model for Richard, demonstrating that it is possible to be both a poet and a patriot. Kilmer's example challenges Richard's preconceived notions about masculinity and inspires him to pursue his artistic passions with confidence.

• Kilmer's decision to enlist in the Army demonstrates his commitment to serving his country.
• His continued writing and appreciation for poetry, even in the midst of war, inspires Richard to persevere in his own artistic pursuits.

Self-Acceptance: Through his correspondence with Kilmer, Richard learns to accept himself for who he is, including his sensitivity, his artistic inclinations, and his commitment to justice. This self-acceptance empowers him to live authentically and to make a positive impact on the world around him.

7. Sacrifice and Loss in Wartime

Perhaps if people like me do their duty in this last war, fine young men like you will never have to fight and die ever again.

Personal Cost: The war exacts a heavy toll on the characters in the novel, both emotionally and physically. Gus's decision to enlist creates a rift within his family, while Hannah's brother Otto faces the horrors of combat overseas.

Kilmer's Death: The news of Joyce Kilmer's death in battle deeply affects Richard, shattering his sense of hope and leaving him questioning the value of poetry in a world consumed by violence. Kilmer's sacrifice underscores the tragic loss of talent and potential caused by war.

• Richard struggles to reconcile Kilmer's death with his belief in the power of poetry.
• He questions whether his own poetry can make a difference in the face of such overwhelming loss.

Enduring Grief: The characters grapple with the enduring grief and uncertainty of wartime, learning to cope with loss, fear, and the constant threat of danger. Their experiences highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in the face of adversity.

8. The Enduring Power of Art and Empathy

What do poets and poetry do to make the world better?

Finding Meaning: Despite the tragedy and loss surrounding him, Richard ultimately discovers that art and empathy have the power to transcend violence and hatred. He realizes that poetry can offer solace, inspire hope, and promote understanding in a world torn apart by conflict.

Legacy of Kilmer: Kilmer's legacy lives on through Richard, who vows to continue writing poetry and to carry on Kilmer's message of peace and compassion. Richard's commitment to his art becomes a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of using one's voice to make a positive impact on the world.

• Richard writes a poem in memory of Kilmer, honoring his life and legacy.
• He resolves to continue writing poetry, inspired by Kilmer's example.

Hope for the Future: The novel concludes with a sense of hope for the future, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, art and empathy can offer a path towards healing, reconciliation, and a more just and peaceful world.

Last updated: March 7, 2025