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Above the Battle   By: (1866-1944)

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Above the Battle by Romain Rolland is a captivating and thought-provoking book that explores the human experience during one of the darkest periods in history. Written during World War I, Rolland's work is a powerful critique of the senseless violence and destruction that war brings upon humanity.

One of the outstanding aspects of this book is Rolland's ability to convey the emotional toll that war takes on individuals. Through his vivid descriptions and introspective writing, the author paints a poignant picture of the toll that conflict has on the minds and spirits of those involved. He delves deep into the psychological states of soldiers, revealing their fears, doubts, and struggles to find meaning in the chaos surrounding them.

Rolland's anti-war stance echoes throughout the pages, as he portrays war as a futile and destructive endeavor. He masterfully argues against the glorification of violence, emphasizing the loss of human life and the destruction of communities. Through his vivid imagery and visceral language, he exposes the harsh realities of war, urging the reader to question the motives behind such conflicts.

Moreover, Rolland's work reminds us of the universal humanity that binds us all together, regardless of nationality or allegiance. He challenges the idea of enemies, stressing the importance of compassion and understanding for one another. This theme reverberates throughout the book, highlighting the need for empathy and peace in a world torn apart by war.

While the book may be challenging at times due to its dense and philosophical passages, it is precisely these moments that make Above the Battle a compelling read. Rolland's eloquent prose and profound insights into the human condition will appeal to readers seeking a deeper understanding of war's impact on individuals and society.

In conclusion, Above the Battle by Romain Rolland is a timeless masterpiece that speaks to the futility of war and the need for peace. Its vivid descriptions, introspective writing, and thought-provoking themes make it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the human experience during times of conflict. With its powerful anti-war message, this book remains as relevant today as it was when it was first published.

First Page:

Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was produced from scanned images of public domain material from the Google Print project.)

ABOVE THE BATTLE

"The fire smouldering in the forest of Europe was beginning to burst into flames. In vain did they try to put it out in one place; it only broke out in another. With gusts of smoke and a shower of sparks it swept from one point to another, burning the dry brushwood. Already in the East there were skirmishes as the prelude to the great war of the nations. All Europe, Europe that only yesterday was sceptical and apathetic, like a dead wood, was swept by the flames. All men were possessed by the desire for battle. War was ever on the point of breaking out. It was stamped out, but it sprang to life again. The world felt that it was at the mercy of an accident that might let loose the dogs of war. The world lay in wait. The feeling of inevitability weighed heavily even upon the most pacifically minded. And ideologues, sheltered beneath the massive shadows of the cyclops, Proudhon, hymned in war man's fairest title of nobility...."

"This, then, was to be the end of the physical and moral resurrection of the races of the West! To such butchery they were to be borne along by the currents of action and passionate faith! Only a Napoleonic genius could have marked out a chosen, deliberate aim for this blind, onward rush... Continue reading book >>




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