In the book "Birdsong" by Sebastian Faulks, there is a poignant depiction of soldiers preparing for battle. They kneel in a somber state, overwhelmed by the weight of their impending fight. Their faces are obscured, symbolizing the emotional turmoil they face as they confront the reality of death looming ahead. This moment encapsulates the fear and despair that these men are experiencing as they approach the chaos of war.

The imagery of a "tunnel of their own" suggests a shared sense of isolation among the soldiers, as they each grapple with their thoughts and feelings about mortality. The darkness they experience reflects the uncertainty and dread associated with the conflict they are about to engage in. Faulks effectively conveys the inner struggles of these men, highlighting the profound impact that war has on their psyche.