Harold Parry facts for kids
Harold Parry (born December 13, 1896 – died May 6, 1917) was an English war poet during World War I. He wrote poems about his experiences in the war. Sadly, his poems were published after he died in a place called Flanders.
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Life of Harold Parry
Harold Parry was born in 1896 in a town called Bloxwich. At that time, Bloxwich was in Staffordshire. Today, it is part of the West Midlands. Harold was one of two twins. His father, David Ebenezer Parry, owned a coal mine. His mother was Sarah Parry.
Early Life and Education
Harold was a very bright student. He won a special scholarship to attend Queen Mary's Grammar School in Walsall. Later, in 1915, he won another scholarship. This one allowed him to study history at Exeter College, Oxford, a famous university.
Joining the Army
In January 1916, while he was studying at Oxford, Harold decided to join the army. He volunteered for service. He became a Second Lieutenant in the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. This meant he was an officer.
After training near Rugeley, he moved to a different group. He joined the 17th battalion of the King's Royal Rifle Corps. A battalion is a large group of soldiers.
Serving in World War I
Harold served in France at a place called the Somme. This was the site of a very big battle. In November 1916, his group moved to the Ypres Salient in Flanders, Belgium. This was another important battle area.
Harold Parry was killed on May 6, 1917. He died from shellfire near the Yser Canal section. Shellfire means he was hit by exploding bombs or artillery shells.
His Poetry
Harold had written poems even before the war started. His time fighting at the Somme and in Flanders made him want to write poetry again.
After he died, a book was published called In Memoriam: Harold Parry. This book included his letters and poems. It was put together by Geoffrey Dennis. Some of Harold's poems also appeared in a collection called Songs from the Heart of England (1920). This collection was put together by Alfred Moss. It also had a special introduction by Jerome K. Jerome.
His Final Resting Place
Harold Parry is buried in Vlamertinghe Military Cemetery. This cemetery is in the village of Vlamertinge. It is located in West Flanders, Belgium.
His headstone has a special message carved on it. It says: "Death is the Gate To the High Road of Life And Love is the Way (Harold Parry)".
