All quiet along the Potomac to-night, no sound save the rush of the river, while soft falls the dew on the face of the dead, the picket's off duty forever.

Summary

This quote describes a serene and still night on the Potomac River, where there is complete silence except for the gentle sound of the flowing water. The scene is juxtaposed with the somberness of fallen soldiers, referred to as "the dead," who lie peacefully and undisturbed. The mention of the picket being off duty suggests that the soldiers responsible for guarding and patrolling are no longer required to do so as they have permanently lost their lives. The quote encapsulates the quiet aftermath of a battlefield, illustrating the tranquility that contrasts with the loss and sacrifice of those who have given their lives.

Topics