Our War

Main Themes and Topics

Our War by Christopher Somerville unravels the untold, real stories of soldiers from the Commonwealth who fought during World War II. The book delves into the complex web of emotions and experiences of these soldiers, covering a wide array of themes such as comedy, tragedy, pride, and degradation. It also highlights the stark realities of racial prejudice faced by many soldiers and explores their devotion to the British "Mother Country" juxtaposed against their yearning for independence from it. Somerville skillfully gathers personal testimonies to illustrate why these soldiers chose to fight in a war far from their homes, how the war shaped their lives, and their evolving attitudes towards Britain before and after the war. This book serves as a tribute to the five million Commonwealth soldiers and the sacrifices they made.

Writing Style and Tone

Christopher Somerville employs a narrative style that is both powerful and moving, enabling the reader to connect deeply with the veterans' stories. The testimonies are woven together with skill and sensitivity, capturing the human side of war in its raw essence. The tone shifts adeptly between the light-hearted and the somber, reflecting the varied experiences of the soldiers. Somerville's approach ensures that the veterans' voices are heard authentically and respectfully, spotlighting the broad spectrum of emotions from pride to disillusionment.

Brief Summary

Our War brings to light the untold stories of Commonwealth soldiers who participated in World War II. Through personal testimonies, the book explores the motivations, experiences, and aftermath of war on these individuals. It paints a vivid picture of how the war was a confluence of comedy and tragedy, which influenced the soldiers' pride and subsequent disillusionment. The narrative raises awareness of the essential contributions of these soldiers, whose stories remained largely unheard until now.