I knew what this poem was talking about. I'm from Syracuse, and I've always thought the Soldier and Sailors Monument was interesting. I had actually thought of painting it before, perhaps to give to my family, or for Father's Day.

I like to work in fantasy and science fiction, and that's partly why the monument appeals to me. In fantasies like Lord of the Rings, you have battles taking place in medieval settings. The monument could represent something out of fantasy, but it doesn't. The event was real, and that sparks my interest the most.

I also like the composition of the monument. It's impressive. And that's partly why my illustration turned out so well, because the subject was already good.