the general

Shifting from a relentless war hero to a sudden epiphany depicting the enemy as much like himself, Dispatch in “The General” employs distinctive imagery, loyal tone, and the juxtaposition of the General’s unwavering valor and gladiatorial prowess to a sense of compassion and understanding that exemplifies his sudden realization that the enemy is no different from them and “that this fight is not worth fighting.”

            Throughout the entirety of the song, Dispatch utilizes loyal tone by expressing the respect the troops have for their General, to their reaction after hearing the decision not to fight was rendered.  In several instances, Dispatch brings to the surface loyal tone in the way the men carry themselves.  “All the men held tall with their chests in the air, with courage in their blood and a fire in their stare” showing just how ready this troop was to give their all to the man they hold so highly in their mind. 

            Dispatch also applies distinctive imagery throughout the song to further entice the listener to feel the emotions and actions that the men felt. “Not a man moved, their eyes gazed straight ahead till one by one they stepped back and not a word was said… he then prepared to fight.” Through these images Dispatch is able to convey, to the listener just how much respect the troops had for their tremendous and dedicated General.

            Lastly Dispatch uses the juxtaposition of a “decorated General with a heart of gold” to a man who, “tossed in his sleep and wrestled with its meaning” to verbalize the change in him from “a seasoned veteran” to a sympathetic man of compassion. This juxtaposition sets up the listener for the unexpected change from a violent and animalistic war to respectful surrendering to the enemy in order to save men’s lives and mother’s hearts.

            With distinctive imagery, loyal tone, and contradictory juxtaposition, Dispatch drives home the point that we are all the same, from a decorated general with battle wounds and medals to show his prowess to the common soldier awaiting his orders.