Normative Perspective on the Poppy Symbol
According to Laura Clouting, the first World War curator at the Imperial War Museum, the symbolism of the poppy has evolved over time.
Historical and Contemporary Significance
She states,
It has now come to symbolize the sacrifice and effort of the armed forces in more recent conflicts.However, she notes that the increased complexity and moral ambiguity of these conflicts have made the poppy a more contentious emblem.
Controversies and Appropriations
Clouting discusses how the red poppy, in contrast to the white poppy representing peace,
has been appropriated by far-right organizations.Some object to its use, associating it with actions of Britain’s military, including in Northern Ireland.
Personal Reflections from Northern Ireland
Growing up in Northern Ireland in the 1960s and 1970s, children used war memorabilia — steel helmets, ammunition, water flasks — as toys, reflecting their family connections to soldiers who served in the world wars. These items served as tangible links to history and loved ones lost in war, and were part of childhood games.
Author's Summary
The symbolism of the poppy has shifted, becoming both a symbol of sacrifice and a source of controversy due to its association with complex modern conflicts and political groups.