"Death does seem to have all he can attend to"

Main Themes and Topics

"Death does seem to have all he can attend to" by George A. Hitchcock provides an eye-opening account of a soldier's life during the American Civil War, and its main themes revolve around the brutality and unpredictability of war, survival, and resilience. Hitchcock’s daily diary entries offer a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the life of a Union soldier, highlighting the constant presence of death and the struggle to maintain humanity amidst chaos. The diary illuminates not only the physical battles fought on the front lines but also the internal battles of maintaining morale and sanity in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Writing Style and Tone

Hitchcock's writing style is direct and candid, characteristic of diary entries intended for personal reflection rather than publication. The tone captures the emotional turbulence of a soldier’s life with striking clarity, transitioning from hope to despair, camaraderie to isolation. The author's meticulous attention to detail paints vivid pictures of the events he witnessed, making history feel immediate and real. His entries are rendered with a straightforwardness that underscores the stark realities of war, devoid of romanticism or embellishment, which serves to enhance their authenticity and impact.

Brief Summary

The book follows George Alfred Hitchcock, a soldier from Massachusetts, who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Hitchcock's diary begins on August 7, 1862, documenting his experiences from joining the 21st Massachusetts Infantry to his eventual capture and imprisonment. Key events include his participation in battles at Fox's Gap, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, as well as his journeys across various states, his encounters with local security, and missions against guerrilla forces. His narrative is marked by a vivid portrayal of the arduous conditions faced by Union soldiers, detailing not just the battles but also the day-to-day challenges of military life. The diary concludes with Hitchcock’s harrowing experience of being captured at Cold Harbor and his time in notorious Confederate prisons before his eventual release.