
Twenty-four stories giving a sharp, often funny, always moving picture of life on the home and battle fronts. Some of the very finest contemporary fiction is included, from such writers as Kingsley Amis, Graham Greene, V.S. Pritchett, and Elizabeth Bowen. Aimed at all those interested in the literature and history of war.
This anthology captures the fractured reality of life during the Second World War through a collection of twenty-four distinct narrative perspectives. These stories examine the experiences of individuals caught between the domestic sphere and the front lines of combat. The authors utilize a variety of narrative frameworks, ranging from observational realism to character-driven vignettes, to explore the psychological toll of global conflict. The protagonists navigate the physical constraints of wartime shortages, displacement, and the constant threat of violence, while facing the logical constraints of a world where traditional societal structures have been upended.
Readers and critics frequently note the sharp, observational quality of the prose contained within this collection. Discussion often centers on the balance between the grim realities of battle and the unexpected moments of levity found in civilian life. Many highlight the effectiveness of the anthology in providing a multifaceted view of the war that avoids singular heroic tropes. The inclusion of renowned authors adds a layer of literary prestige that keeps the collection relevant for those interested in the evolution of war-themed fiction.
Page Count:
239
Publication Date:
1982-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0192129732
ISBN-13:
9780192129734
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