Books matching: post war disillusionment
18 result(s)
'Ivan's War: Life and Death in the Red Army, 1939-1945' by Catherine Merridale offers a gripping and detailed account of the experiences of the Red Army soldiers during World War II. Through interviews, letters, and investigations, Merridale unveils the harsh realities faced by the average Soviet soldier, portraying them as ill-equipped, poorly led, and viewed as expendable by their own government. The book delves into the struggles and sacrifices of these soldiers, shedding light on their brutal and often overlooked role in the largest and most brutal land conflict in human history.
Merridale's writing style is captivating and well-researched, providing a comprehensive and eye-opening narrative of the Russian Army's journey from a disorganized and ill-prepared force in 1939 to a formidable fighting machine by the end of the war. The author skillfully explores the propaganda wars, the Communist government's treatment of its soldiers and citizens, and the personal stories of the soldiers who endured the horrors of war, offering a unique perspective on a lesser-known aspect of World War II.
The opportunity to research and to write this book was a privilege, and I am indebted to many people for their generosity, patience, learning and support. The greatest burden was carried by a successi...- #2
Save:The novel 'The Moviegoer' by Walker Percy follows the protagonist Binx Bolling, a young man living in New Orleans, who finds solace in movies and struggles with existential questions. Set during Mardi Gras week, Binx's introspective journey through alienation, faith, and the search for meaning is intertwined with his relationships and encounters in post-WWII New Orleans. The author's interest in existential philosophy is evident as Binx navigates his way through a world where reality and fantasy blur, leading to a deeper exploration of the human condition.
Percy's writing style in 'The Moviegoer' is described as exquisite, thought-provoking, and evocative, with a focus on character study and exploring existential themes. The novel presents a quiet yet striking narrative, filled with elegant prose that captures the complexities of Binx's inner struggles and the mundane extraordin or extraordinary world around him.
THIS MORNING I GOT a note from my aunt asking me to come for lunch. I know what this means. Since I go there every Sunday for dinner and today is Wednesday, it can mean only one thing: she wants to ha... - #3
Save:'Crome Yellow' by Aldous Huxley is a satirical novel set in an English country estate post WWI, where a group of intellectuals, artists, and eccentrics gather to discuss art, literature, love, and philosophy. The story revolves around the interactions and conversations of the guests, showcasing the characters' quirks and the societal norms of the time. The writing style is witty, filled with clever dialogue, and explores themes of societal norms, individual identity, and the tension between tradition and modernity.
CHAPTER I. CHAPTER II. CHAPTER III. CHAPTER IV. CHAPTER V. CHAPTER VI. CHAPTER VII. CHAPTER VIII. CHAPTER IX. CHAPTER X. CHAPTER XI. CHAPTER XII. CHAPTER XIII. CHAPTER XIV. CHAPTER XV. CHAPTER XVI. CH... - #4
Save:Black Wings Has My Angel by Elliott Chaze is a noir crime novel set in the 1950s that follows the story of an escaped convict named Tim Sunblade who teams up with a call girl named Virginia for a daring heist. The plot delves into their passionate yet volatile relationship, as they plan to make a massive score while battling their inner demons and societal expectations. The writing style of Chaze is described as sharp, witty, and slicing away at post-war American reality, highlighting themes of greed, desperation, and the destructive nature of human desires.
I’D BEEN roughnecking on a drilling rig in the Atchafayala River for better than sixteen weeks, racking the big silver stems of pipe, lugging the sacks of drilling mud from barge to shore, working wit... 'Rites of Spring: The Great War and the Birth of the Modern Age' by Modris Eksteins delves into the cultural conflicts leading up to WWI and explores the transition from the Belle Époque to the fin de siècle angst through art and culture. The narrative covers the period before the war, the war itself, and its aftermath, highlighting the profound changes that took place during this turbulent time. Eksteins presents a unique perspective on the era, focusing on the impact of the war on society, art, and civilization, rather than just the military battles.
Eksteins' writing style is described as academic, insightful, and engaging, offering readers a deep understanding of the historical events and societal shifts that occurred during this pivotal period. weaves together various elements such as art, literature, music, and architecture to paint a comprehensive picture of the cultural landscape of the early 20th century, ultimately providing a thought-provoking analysis of the human experience amidst the chaos of war and rapid societal change.
As one approaches the outskirts of Verdun on the Route Nationale 3 from Metz, having enjoyed a serene Vosges countryside of rolling hills and meadows, and a steady honor guard of sturdy oak trees, one...- #6
Save:The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham is a character-driven drama that delves into themes of self-discovery, existential struggles, and the search for meaning in life. The story follows the protagonist's journey of self-discovery, intertwined with the lives of other characters, as they navigate through different experiences and perspectives. The writing style is described as beautiful and philosophical, with deep insights into human nature and existence.
I have never begun a novel with more misgiving. If I call it a novel it is only because I don't know what elseto call it. I have little story to tell and I end neither with a death nor a marriage. Dea... - #7
Save:The Black Obelisk by Erich Maria Remarque is set in post-WWI Germany during the hyperinflation era and the rise of National Socialism. The novel explores themes of failed love on various levels, societal struggles, and the disillusionment of individuals in a country facing economic turmoil and political unrest. Through compelling characters and vivid descriptions, Remarque paints a bleak yet thought-provoking picture of a society on the brink of a second World War.
THE SUN IS SHINING in the office of Heinrich Kroll and Sons, Funeral Monuments. It is April, 1923, and business is good. The first quarter has been lively; we have made brilliant sales and grown poor ... - #8
Save:'A German Requiem' by Philip Kerr is a historical detective novel set in post-World War II Germany and Austria. The story follows the protagonist, Bernie Gunther, a former police detective turned private investigator, as he navigates the complex and dangerous world of post-war Europe. The plot delves into the daily struggles faced by the people in Berlin and Vienna, the aftermath of the war, and the challenges of dealing with former colleagues and unsavory characters from the past. Kerr's writing style is described as mature and skillful, with evocative portrayals of life in Germany and Austria during this tumultuous period.
It was a cold, beautiful day, the kind you can best appreciate with a fire to stoke and a dog to scratch. I had neither, but then there wasn’t any fuel about and I never much liked dogs. But thanks to...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Bernard Gunther ) - #9
Save:"Hot Springs" by Stephen Hunter is a hard-boiled noir novel set in 1946 Hot Springs, Arkansas, where crime boss Owney Madden introduces gambling and prostitution with the help of the Grumley family. The district attorney enlists Earl Swagger, a Medal of Honor winner haunted by his past, to combat the mob's corruption. As casino raids escalate into intense combat, Earl and his team navigate a world of deception, facing off against mobsters and politicians. The story delves into Earl's complex character, his inner turmoil, and his quest for redemption in a post-war era filled with danger and mistrust.
The author paints a vivid picture of 1946 Hot Springs, capturing the celestial beauty and the filthy underbelly of the town with cinematic detail. seamlessly weaves real historical figures such as Bugsy Siegel and Virginia Hill into a fictional narrative, creating a thrilling and immersive tale of redemption, triumph, and hope amidst a backdrop of intrigue and conflict.
Each morning he shaved carefully with a well-stropped razor, buttoned a clean, crackly starched white shirt, tied a black string tie in a bow knot. Then he pulled up his suspenders and put on his blac... - #10
Save:Three Soldiers by John Dos Passos is a novel set primarily in post-World War I France, focusing on the lives of three American soldiers - Fuselli, Chrisfield, and Andrews. The story delves into their experiences after the war, their struggles, and disillusionment with the military system. Dos Passos' writing style shifts focus between the characters at different points in their journeys, providing interesting character studies and a frank portrayal of their lives during a challenging time.
The company stood at attention, each man looking straight before him at the empty parade ground, where the cinder piles showed purple with evening. On the wind that smelt of barracks and disinfectant ...
