Though poetry can be used to examine a number of topics, this author feels that it is especially illuminating when exploring war. On its surface, war is a ludicrous spectacle of human failings. The fact that countries allow disputes to be settled by a demonstration of each nation's ability to kill citizens of the other nation defies logic. In addition, the experience of war--the horror, excitement, and strange ability to addict--is almost impossible to convey. In this way, the varied language of poetry offers great value. Poetry, like war, is not constrained by logic. It speaks to the heart as much as the mind, allowing for understanding where explanation and justification elude us. This article discusses three "poems" that address this topic: "The Star Spangled Banner" (Francis Scott Key), "Dulce Ed Decorum Est" (Wilfrid Owen), and "Goodnight Saigon" (Billy Joel).