Stanza 2 looks at the wider setting and puts the questions which are in Owen's mind. The structure of the text does not accurately reflect the poem's agenda, while the rhyme scheme also is idiosyncratic and the rhythm is disjointed within lines of variable length and stress. There is much figurative language consistent with its metaphysical slant before Owen ends with a personal statement. Stanza 1. lines 1-3. At the beginning sleep is literally that, but personified as a creature of benevolence bestowing rest on the exhausted soldier, a blessed relief after the stresses of war.
Life ebbs away and stillness ensues.
Stanza 2 Lines 10-12. Owen asks what happens after death. His thoughts first turn to the mystery of Christian doctrine and tradition and the hope that death may be transcended. Owen considers the alternative to religious belief. Death the end.