Active Service By: Stephen Crane (1871-1900)
Active Service by Stephen Crane is a riveting and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of war and the human experience. Set during the Spanish-American War, Crane takes the reader on a journey through the eyes of soldiers, journalists, and civilians, shining a light on the harsh realities of conflict. One of the standout features of this book is Crane's impeccable storytelling ability. His prose is vivid and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the chaotic and brutal world of war. From the opening pages, Crane captures the reader's attention and holds it captive until the very end. The pacing of the novel is masterful, with suspenseful and intense moments interwoven with moments of reflection and introspection. The characters in Active Service are expertly crafted and multi-dimensional. Crane portrays the soldiers' experiences with authenticity, illustrating the physical and psychological toll of war. Through his characters, Crane explores themes of camaraderie, courage, fear, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in times of conflict. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the fate of these characters, rooting for their survival and hoping for their redemption. In addition to its portrayal of war, Active Service also examines the nature of truth and the role of the media during times of crisis. Crane sheds light on the ethical challenges faced by journalists who struggle to balance the need for accurate reporting with the brutal realities of war. His commentary on the power and influence of media serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible journalism. While the subject matter of Active Service is undoubtedly heavy, Crane injects moments of humor and satire throughout the narrative. This contrast brings a certain levity to the story, providing relief from the intensity of the war scenes. Crane's wit and cleverness shine through in his dialogue and characterization, making the reading experience all the more enjoyable. However, some readers may find the structure of the novel slightly disjointed. The narrative flows between multiple perspectives and timelines, which can be confusing at times. The shifts in perspective, although serving a purpose, may require some readers to pay close attention to keep track of the various storylines. Active Service is a compelling work of historical fiction that explores the human condition in the context of war. Stephen Crane's masterful storytelling, well-developed characters, and insightful commentary make this novel a must-read for fans of war literature. It is a poignant reminder of the impact of war on individuals and society, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after they have turned the final page. First Page: ACTIVE SERVICE by Stephen Crane CHAPTER I. MARJORY walked pensively along the hall. In the cool shadows made by the palms on the window ledge, her face wore the expression of thoughtful melancholy expected on the faces of the devotees who pace in cloistered gloom. She halted before a door at the end of the hall and laid her hand on the knob. She stood hesitating, her head bowed. It was evident that this mission was to require great fortitude. At last she opened the door. " Father," she began at once. There was disclosed an elderly, narrow faced man seated at a large table and surrounded by manuscripts and books. The sunlight flowing through curtains of Turkey red fell sanguinely upon the bust of dead eyed Pericles on the mantle. A little clock was ticking, hidden somewhere among the countless leaves of writing, the maps and broad heavy tomes that swarmed upon the table. Her father looked up quickly with an ogreish scowl. Go away! " he cried in a rage. " Go away. Go away. Get out " " He seemed on the point of arising to eject the visitor. It was plain to her that he had been interrupted in the writing of one of his sentences, ponderous, solemn and endless, in which wandered multitudes of homeless and friendless prepositions, adjectives looking for a parent, and quarrelling nouns, sentences which no longer symbolised the languageform of thought but which had about them a quaint aroma from the dens of long dead scholars... Continue reading book >>

Active Service By: Stephen Crane (1871-1900)

Active Service by Stephen Crane is a riveting and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of war and the human experience. Set during the Spanish-American War, Crane takes the reader on a journey through the eyes of soldiers, journalists, and civilians, shining a light on the harsh realities of conflict.

One of the standout features of this book is Crane's impeccable storytelling ability. His prose is vivid and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the chaotic and brutal world of war. From the opening pages, Crane captures the reader's attention and holds it captive until the very end. The pacing of the novel is masterful, with suspenseful and intense moments interwoven with moments of reflection and introspection.

The characters in Active Service are expertly crafted and multi-dimensional. Crane portrays the soldiers' experiences with authenticity, illustrating the physical and psychological toll of war. Through his characters, Crane explores themes of camaraderie, courage, fear, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in times of conflict. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the fate of these characters, rooting for their survival and hoping for their redemption.

In addition to its portrayal of war, Active Service also examines the nature of truth and the role of the media during times of crisis. Crane sheds light on the ethical challenges faced by journalists who struggle to balance the need for accurate reporting with the brutal realities of war. His commentary on the power and influence of media serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible journalism.

While the subject matter of Active Service is undoubtedly heavy, Crane injects moments of humor and satire throughout the narrative. This contrast brings a certain levity to the story, providing relief from the intensity of the war scenes. Crane's wit and cleverness shine through in his dialogue and characterization, making the reading experience all the more enjoyable.

However, some readers may find the structure of the novel slightly disjointed. The narrative flows between multiple perspectives and timelines, which can be confusing at times. The shifts in perspective, although serving a purpose, may require some readers to pay close attention to keep track of the various storylines.

Active Service is a compelling work of historical fiction that explores the human condition in the context of war. Stephen Crane's masterful storytelling, well-developed characters, and insightful commentary make this novel a must-read for fans of war literature. It is a poignant reminder of the impact of war on individuals and society, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after they have turned the final page.

First Page:

ACTIVE SERVICE

by Stephen Crane

CHAPTER I.

MARJORY walked pensively along the hall. In the cool shadows made by the palms on the window ledge, her face wore the expression of thoughtful melancholy expected on the faces of the devotees who pace in cloistered gloom. She halted before a door at the end of the hall and laid her hand on the knob. She stood hesitating, her head bowed. It was evident that this mission was to require great fortitude.

At last she opened the door. " Father," she began at once. There was disclosed an elderly, narrow faced man seated at a large table and surrounded by manuscripts and books. The sunlight flowing through curtains of Turkey red fell sanguinely upon the bust of dead eyed Pericles on the mantle. A little clock was ticking, hidden somewhere among the countless leaves of writing, the maps and broad heavy tomes that swarmed upon the table.

Her father looked up quickly with an ogreish scowl.

Go away! " he cried in a rage. " Go away. Go away. Get out " " He seemed on the point of arising to eject the visitor. It was plain to her that he had been interrupted in the writing of one of his sentences, ponderous, solemn and endless, in which wandered multitudes of homeless and friendless prepositions, adjectives looking for a parent, and quarrelling nouns, sentences which no longer symbolised the languageform of thought but which had about them a quaint aroma from the dens of long dead scholars... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Active Service

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