Pollak's Arm
by Hans von Trotha
Popularity
4.45 / 5
* A book's popularity is determined by how it compares to all other books on this website.
Where to buy?
Buy from Amazon* If you buy this book through the link above, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Pollak's Arm by Hans von Trotha
Details
War:
World War II
Perspective:
Civilian
Biography:
No
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
140
Published Date:
2022
ISBN13:
9781954404007
Description
Main Themes and Topics
Pollak's Arm by Hans von Trotha delves into the harrowing choices faced during times of war and persecution, focusing on the conflict between duty and personal passion. The novel highlights the life of Ludwig Pollak, a Jewish antiquities dealer in Rome, as he confronts the imminent threat of Nazi persecution. Through Pollak's narrative, the book explores themes such as the preservation of cultural heritage, the significance of art and history, and the moral complexities encountered during times of crisis. By juxtaposing Pollak's dedication to art with the looming barbarism of the Nazi regime, von Trotha emphasizes the enduring power of culture and knowledge in the face of destruction.
Writing Style and Tone
Hans von Trotha employs a richly descriptive and reflective writing style in Pollak's Arm, creating an immersive experience for the reader. The tone oscillates between an urgent tension, due to the underlying threat of Nazi roundups, and a contemplative tranquility as Pollak recounts his life and discoveries. The narrative's reflective quality allows readers to ponder the depth of historical and cultural insights shared by Pollak, while the urgency of the Vatican envoy's mission keeps the narrative taut and engaging. Von Trotha's prose honors the intellectual depth and passion of his protagonist, effectively conveying the heartbreaking clash between civilization and barbarism.
Brief Summary
Set on October 16, 1943, in Nazi-occupied Rome, Pollak's Arm follows an envoy sent by the Vatican in a race against time to protect Ludwig Pollak and his family from imminent danger. Despite the peril, Pollak remains captivated by his life's work and stories, reflecting on his career in archaeology and remarkable discoveries, including the renowned missing arm of the Laocoön sculpture. The novel delicately balances the urgency of the situation with Pollak's introspective recounting of his experiences, underlining the struggle between preserving one's legacy and confronting the horrors of the present.
