Requiem for the Croppies : Quotations
Requiem for the Croppies is a notable literary work by Seamus Heaney. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Requiem for the Croppies.
Quotations
Quotes
“The pockets of our greatcoats full of barley –
No kitchens on the run…”
Exp: The croppies carried barley as food because they were poor farmers and always moving. They had no kitchens on the run. This shows the hard struggle they faced during the Irish rebellion.
“Terraced thousands died, shaking scythes at cannon.
The hillside blushed, soaked in our broken wave.”
Exp: This line describes the bloody battle at Vinegar Hill. The Irish rebels fought bravely with simple farming tools against strong cannons. The “blushing hillside” means the land was red with their blood — a sign of sacrifice and loss.
“And in August the barley grew up out of the grave.”
Exp: The barley growing from the graves shows hope and new life. Though the rebels died, their spirit lived on. The growing barley is a symbol of Irish freedom and remembrance.