The Telegram: Theme: Sacrifice

“The Telegram: Theme: Sacrifice” Overview

“Sacrifice” becomes a significant theme in Iain Crichton Smith’s “The Telegram”, as it often reflects on the costs of war and personal losses.
This theme is understood not only in the context of the woman’s loss of her son, but also in the greater sacrifices made for the communal good during war times.

Key Points in ‘Sacrifice’

The rawest example of “Sacrifice” in the story is the woman’s son giving up his life in the war — a sacrifice made by countless young men in real-life war scenarios.
This theme is also seen in the woman’s own life, who has to give up her happiness and contentment following the death of her son.

Important Narrative Techniques

The theme of “Sacrifice” is emphasised using powerful imagery that reflects on the brutal realities of war.
The writer also uses contrast between before and after the telegram’s receipt, effectively depicting the magnitude of sacrifice.

Exploration of Themes

The exploration of “Sacrifice” in the story often overlaps with other themes, such as grief and fear, making it an integral part of the story’s narrative.
For example, the woman’s grief over the loss of her son is a direct result of the sacrifices she and her son have made.

Characterisation

Both the woman and her son are characters central to the theme of “Sacrifice”. The son sacrifices his life in the war, and the mother’s love, joy and future are also sacrificed due to this loss.
The mother, despite her loss, shows a kind of sacrificial love, deciding to continue living despite the pain — she sacrifices her peace for survival.

Plot Structure

Elements of “Sacrifice” are woven throughout the plot structure, seen both in the lead up to and aftermath of the receipt of the telegram.
The omnipresent nature of “Sacrifice” in the story helps emphasise both the personal and universal costs of war.
Iain Crichton Smith uses “The Telegram” to reveal the broader societal costs often hidden behind the losses detailed in war telegrams.