Photographing the Fallen

Main Themes and Topics

Photographing the Fallen by Jeremy Gordon-Smith delves into the poignant and historically significant work of Ivan Bawtree, a professional photographer with the Graves Registration Units during World War I. The main themes of the book encompass war, memory, and commemoration. Through Bawtree's archival photographs and detailed records, the book provides insights into the establishment of wartime cemeteries and the early efforts of the Imperial War Graves Commission. It highlights the sorrow of loss, the importance of memory, and the dedication to honoring soldiers who perished in the conflict. The narrative also explores the harsh realities and devastation of front-line regions, as well as the emotional connection between the living and the deceased through the lenses of both camera and history.

Writing Style and Tone

Jeremy Gordon-Smith adopts an informative and respectful tone throughout Photographing the Fallen. The writing is characterized by its meticulous attention to historical details and the compassionate portrayal of Bawtree’s mission. Descriptive language is utilized to convey the visual and emotional impact of Bawtree’s photographs, allowing readers to grasp the gravity of the wartime scenes and the solemn task of documenting the fallen. The book succeeds in balancing factual precision with a narrative that honors the memory of those who served and sacrificed during the war.

Brief Summary

Photographing the Fallen chronicles the wartime journey of Ivan Bawtree as he undertakes the solemn duty of capturing graves on the Western Front for the relatives of deceased soldiers. Covering the period from 1915 to 1919, Bawtree’s work is essential for understanding the military zones and the perilous conditions near the Front Line, as well as for documenting the extensive impact of World War I. The narrative not only covers his photographic work but also provides insights into the founding and activities of the Imperial War Graves Commission, which played a pivotal role in formalizing the commemoration of war casualties.