Question

PLEASE HELP!! What does Lincoln mean when he says that the soldiers who fought or died on the battlefield "have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract"?​

Answer 1

When Lincoln says that the soldiers who fought and died on the battlefield have consecrated it "far above our poor power to add or detract," he means that their sacrifices have given the battlefield a special meaning and significance that cannot be matched by any words or actions of those who were not there. The soldiers' bravery and dedication to their cause have transformed the battlefield into a sacred place where they have given their lives for a cause greater than themselves. Lincoln is acknowledging that their sacrifice has elevated the battlefield to a level that cannot be measured or surpassed by any words or actions of the living and that their memory should be honored and revered. In other words, the soldiers' actions have given the battlefield a meaning that transcends the power of words or deeds of those who were not there to experience it.

Answer 2

When Lincoln says that the soldiers who fought or died on the battlefield "have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract," he means that their actions and sacrifices have given a special, sacred meaning to that place that surpasses anything the living can do or say. The soldiers' devotion, bravery, and willingness to lay down their lives in defense of their cause have elevated the battlefield to a higher level of significance.


In essence, Lincoln is emphasizing the profound and enduring impact of the soldiers' actions and the lasting significance of their sacrifice. He seeks to honor their memory and acknowledge that the living must strive to live up to the ideals for which they fought and died.