The Refugees Blue p. 173 by Oscar D. Otero Gonzalez

“Thought I heard the thunder rumbling in the sky; It was Hitler over Europe, saying, "They must die."" (Auden, lines 15-16)

OscarD735 — 2025-10-14 15:15:41 UTC

This verse uses nature to show danger. The “thunder” means Hitler’s rise and the fear he caused for Jewish refugees.

“Once we had a country and we thought it fair, Look in the atlas and you’ll find it there.” (Auden, lines 4-5)

OscarD735 — 2025-10-14 15:17:00 UTC

These lines show sadness and longing. The refugees lost their homeland, which now exists only on a map. It reflects how Jewish people were left without a country or identity during Nazi rule.

“My dear, my dear, oh my dear.” (Auden, Repeated throughout the story)

OscarD735 — 2025-10-14 15:18:52 UTC

The refrain adds a rhythm of sadness and love. It makes the poem sound like a mournful song, showing the deep pain of refugees and the speaker’s care for his loved one and others who lost their homes.

“The consul banged the table and said, ‘If you’ve got no passport you’re officially dead.’” (Auden, 10-11)

OscarD735 — 2025-10-14 15:30:06 UTC

This verse illustrates the unfair treatment of refugees. They couldn’t enter countries because they had no papers, even when their lives were in danger. Auden suggests that people prioritized papers over human life.