Beyond the Flower: Interpreting the Nonverbal Role of the Poppy Among Legion Members in Whitney Pier

Abstract

The red poppy is a powerful symbol of remembrance in Canada, closely linked to Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae’s famous poem, "In Flanders Fields", and is widely recognized for honoring military sacrifice. Although the poppy's meaning is widely recognized, no research has explored how members of the Royal Canadian Legion perceive its role in nonverbal communication. This study explores how both Ordinary and Associate members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 128 in Whitney Pier, Nova Scotia, connect with the poppy’s symbolism in shaping collective memory, national identity, and public discourse. Using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, the research reveals the evolving significance of the poppy, its contested political and cultural aspects, and the Legion's role in preserving its legacy. The findings offer a deep understanding of symbolic communication and how remembrance practices continue to shape contemporary Canadian society.