The book tells the story of an infantry officer on the Western Front from 1915-1918. For the majority of this time the writer was in the Fourth Battalion of the Coldstream Guards, which had been designated as a "pioneer" battalion keeping open the lines of communications. As they were not called upon to 'go over the top', , their casualties were lighter than those of other battalions. This so preyed on the author's conscience he applied for, and was granted, a transfer to the Second Battalion. He was wounded in September 1918, and was hospitalised for three weeks. By the time he rejoined his battalion, the Germans were in full retreat, and the book ends with a moving description of the liberation of French towns which had been under German occupation for fours years.The book differs from others of this genre by virtue of several features: the writer's introspective reflections on the traumatic events in which be was involved; his shrewd character sketches of his fellow officers; his strange mystical experience on the banks of the River Somme; the poignant juxtaposition of desolation wreaked by the war and his intense love of natural history, particularly birds and wild flowers. Above all he believed that the whole war was a hideous mistake.
Les informations fournies dans la section « Synopsis » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.
Both the author and his son, who has edited this work have shared curiously similar lives. Both were educated at Eton and Balliol College, Oxford; both pursued medical careers; both were keen explorers and sportsmen, winning Blues at University. The Author was awarded the George Medal and the Editor made the first ascent of a peak in the Himalayas.
Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.
Vendeur : WorldofBooks, Goring-By-Sea, WS, Royaume-Uni
Paperback. Etat : Very Good. The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged. N° de réf. du vendeur GOR009143210
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Vendeur : Revaluation Books, Exeter, Royaume-Uni
Paperback. Etat : Brand New. 224 pages. 9.25x6.50x1.00 inches. In Stock. N° de réf. du vendeur zk1783461675
Quantité disponible : 1 disponible(s)