Books matching: humor and tragedy in war
11 result(s)
Company Aytch or a Side Show of the Big Show: A Memoir of the Civil War by Sam R. Watkins is a first-hand account of the American Civil War from the perspective of a Confederate soldier. Watkins provides a detailed insight into the life of an enlisted foot soldier, showcasing the excitement, terror, and emotional toll of nineteenth-century warfare. Through a mix of humor and tragedy, he recounts his experiences in battles, shedding light on the complexities of the war and the impact it had on soldiers and civilians alike. The book captures the rank stupidity of politicians, the incompetence of generals, and the harsh realities faced by soldiers on the battlefield.
Using his anecdotal style, Watkins brings to life the experiences of the Confederate infantry, offering a fresh and vivid portrayal of the war. The book is written in the language of the day, immersing readers in the action and providing a unique perspective on the Civil War. Watkins' writing style, combined with his personal observations and insights, offers a compelling narrative that transports readers back in time to witness the trials and tribulations faced by those who fought in the war.
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Save:'Tales of the South Pacific' by James A. Michener is a collection of linked stories that portray life in the South Pacific during World War II. The book delves into the experiences of American soldiers stationed in the Pacific, highlighting their struggles, relationships, and daily life on the islands. Through a mix of humor, tragedy, courage, and friendship, Michener paints a vivid picture of humanity amidst the backdrop of war, offering a nuanced exploration of individual coping mechanisms and the impact of conflict on ordinary men and women.
I WISH I could tell you about the South Pacific. The way it actually was. The endless ocean. The infinite specks of coral we called islands. Coconut palms nodding gracefully toward the ocean. Reefs up... - #3
Save:'The Unknown Soldier' by Vaino Linna is a dark and gritty novel set in 1941 during the Finnish Continuation War against the Soviet Union. The story follows a Finnish machine gun company as they fight along the border, aiming to push back the Russians and regain lost territory. The narrative delves into the messy, bloody, and horrifying realities of warfare, portraying the experiences of young soldiers facing the pointlessness of conflict. The book captures the struggles, sacrifices, and camaraderie of the soldiers, providing insight into the complexities of the war and the characters' evolving relationships amidst the chaos of battle.
The novel is a masterful portrayal of the Finnish soldiers' tenacious struggle against the overwhelming forces of Stalin's Red Army. Through a mix of comedy, tragedy, and farce, the author paints a poignant picture of ordinary men thrust into extraordinary circumstances, showcasing their bravery, resilience, and humanity amidst the brutal military setting. Linna's writing style is both accessible and deeply moving, offering a searingly honest depiction of the wartime experiences and emotions of the soldiers, making 'The Unknown Soldier' a compelling and immersive read.
As we all know, the Lord is almighty – he knows all and sees far. And so, one day, he let a forest fire burn a good swath of state land, laying waste to acres of the dry, pine forest around the town o... - #4
Save:'Schlump' by Hans Herbert Grimm is a coming-of-age story set during World War I, following the naive young soldier Schlump as he navigates the brutality and stupidity of the military system. Despite the horrors of war, Schlump maintains his innate optimism, providing a unique and somewhat humorous perspective on the Great War. The narrative shifts from lighthearted moments to vivid descriptions of the true horrors of the front lines, offering a balanced portrayal of war that is both funny and tragic. The writing style, although criticized for being blocky and lacking depth, presents a fresh and unconventional take on war literature, blending elements of fiction with historical accuracy.
That evening there was a dance in the Reichsadler – the final one, as the soldiers were due to mobilise the following morning. After sunset Schlump stole into the gallery with his friend; they didn’t ... - #5
Save:One Mississippi by Mark Childress is a coming-of-age novel set in the early 1970s, following the story of Daniel Musgrove as he navigates through multiple family challenges, racial issues, homosexuality, and the Vietnam War. The book explores the complexities of teenage life, friendship, and growing up during a time of social upheaval, all while incorporating elements of humor, drama, and unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged.
Childress weaves a tale that delves into the struggles and experiences of ordinary teenagers like Daniel and his friend Tim, covering themes such as racial integration, family dynamics, first love, and the unpredictability of life. Through vivid storytelling and authentic character development, the novel captures the essence of adolescence, the challenges of fitting in, and the impact of societal issues on young individuals during a tumultuous period in American history.
It was summer in Indiana, the week before I turned sixteen. All afternoon my friends and I had been on our bikes, following the mosquito truck through the streets, breathing the sweet-smelling clouds ... - #6
Save:The Girls of Slender Means is a novel set in post-war London in 1945, focusing on a group of young women living in a boarding house called the May of Teck Club. The story delves into their relationships, escapades, and interactions with one another, offering a glimpse into their lives as they navigate the challenges of the time period. The narrative shifts between past and present, weaving together individual women's stories while building up to a central tragedy that adds depth and poignancy to the plot. Muriel Spark's writing style is characterized by sharp wit, keen observation, and a mix of comic and lyrical elements that bring the characters and setting to life.
The book is praised for its portrayal of post-war London, capturing the spirit of the times with vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. Spark's ability to evoke the randomness of life and death, as well as the complexities of human relationships, adds depth to the narrative. Despite being a short and pithy novel, The Girls of Slender Means is commended for its engaging storytelling, subtle humor, and the twist in the narrative that brings the book to life, making it a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on the lives of young women in the aftermath of World War II.
Long ago in 1945 all the nice people in England were poor, allowing for exceptions. The streets of the cities were lined with buildings in bad repair or in no repair at all, bomb-sites piled with ston... - #7
Save:'I Served the King of England' by Bohumil Hrabal is a fantastic novel that takes the reader on a journey through the life of the protagonist, Ditie, who serves the King of England. The book beautifully combines elements of picaresque adventures, social commentary on European politics, and a meditation on the nature of life and death. The author's writing style, described as a stream of consciousness and flowing, captures the absurdity and beauty of life in Czechoslovakia before, during, and after World War II.
The story follows Ditie's evolution from a busboy and waiter in Prague to a millionaire hotelier with a tragic personal life. Through humor, tragedy, and insightful reflections on human nature, the book explores themes of capitalism, political ideologies, and the quest for wealth and admiration. Hrabal's unique charm and wit shine through the narrative, creating a compelling and thought-provoking tale that blurs the lines between comedy and tragedy.
When I started to work at the Golden Prague Hotel, the boss took hold of my left ear, pulled me up, and said, You’re a busboy here, so remember, you don’t see anything and you don’t hear anything. Rep... - #8
Save:Libby's London Merchant by Carla Kelly is a captivating Regency romance novel that follows the story of Libby Ames, a poor but genteel young lady who becomes entangled in a love triangle involving a rakish duke disguised as a chocolate merchant and a kind-hearted local doctor. The plot unfolds as Libby navigates between two suitors, each with their own charms and flaws, while facing difficult decisions about love, loyalty, and societal expectations. The writing style of Carla Kelly intricately weaves humor, tragedy, and emotional depth into the story, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged till the end.
The novel beautifully explores themes of love, sacrifice, and societal class distinctions, portraying a bittersweet and realistic romance that delves into the complexities of human relationships. Through the characters of Libby, the duke Nez, and the doctor Cook, the book offers a nuanced portrayal of inner conflicts, desires, and the impact of external pressures on personal choices. With unexpected plot twists, well-developed characters, and a blend of humor and sadness, Libby's London Merchant takes readers on a journey of discovery, self-realization, and ultimately, the triumph of love over societal norms.
“Oh, bother it!” Eustace’s voice rose to an unpleasant pitch. He picked up another pillow to throw at his friend and succeeded only in knocking down the few remaining bottles that still stood upright ... - #9
Save:In Brave Deeds by David Abrams, the story follows a squad of six American soldiers who decide to go AWOL in order to attend the funeral of their fallen leader, Staff Sergeant Raphael Rafe Morgan. As they embark on their journey through a hostile Baghdad, the narrative delves into their individual histories and relationships with Rafe, providing insights into the grim conditions of war and the camaraderie that develops among the group. The writing style, characterized by creative analogies, realism in characters, and a narrative structure that jumps between present and past, offers a unique and immersive reading experience.
The book captures the essence of war literature without alienating readers who may not be war buffs, thanks to the distinct voices of the characters and the depth of their personal stories. The plot unfolds as the soldiers face challenges and make tough decisions while striving to honor their fallen comrade, ultimately creating a story that is both insightful and engaging.
We head into the fireball sun, packed in battle armor, baking from the inside out, throats coated with dust, hearts like parade drums, adrenaline spiking off the charts. We’re alone, cut off from the ... - #10
Save:Barry Hannah's 'Airships' is a collection of short stories that delve into the messy, chaotic, and sometimes surreal aspects of life in the American South. The stories range from historical to fantastical, with a writing style that is described as trippy, prosaic, and brutally imaginative. The book explores themes of Southern gothic, bleak underbellies of white America, and post-apocalyptic futures, all while showcasing Hannah's unique and passionate approach to storytelling.
When I am run down and flocked around by the world, I go down to Farte Cove off the Yazoo River and take my beer to the end of the pier where the old liars are still snapping and wheezing at one anoth...
