Barbusse

For the common soldiers view of the war there is no better book than Le Feu by Barbusse.

Save in the last chapter, wherein Barbusse expounds his ideas on social questions, we do not make the author's acquaintance.

Barbusse's story is that of a single squad, almost entirely composed of workers and peasants.

Not until we have read Men in Battle do we fully appreciate Barbusse's chariness in the use of material effects.

With more subtle and restrained artistry than M. Barbusse, the author has portrayed the simple chronicles of many of his comrades.