Prisoner of the Swiss

Brief Summary

Prisoner of the Swiss by Daniel Culler reveals a harrowing account of the author's experiences during World War II as one of the 1,517 US airmen forced to seek asylum in Switzerland. The book details Culler's internment in Swiss prison camps, particularly the notorious Wauwilermoos, under dire conditions. Culler recounts how he and his fellow airmen were subjected to inhumane treatment, including lack of basic needs and brutal violence, under a commandant sympathetic to Nazi ideologies. The narrative follows his struggle for survival in the face of betrayal by American authorities and the Swiss, his eventual return home, and the subsequent denial of his POW experiences. With an introduction and historical notes by Rob Morris, the book provides context and recent efforts to acknowledge the plight of these airmen.

Main Themes and Topics

The book primarily explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the search for recognition and justice. Culler's narrative delves into the chilling realities of wartime internment in a supposedly neutral country and the psychological and physical toll it took on the internees. The story highlights the notion of being abandoned by one's own country and the subsequent fight to have their sacrifices and sufferings recognized. Another underlying theme is the resilience and inner strength of individuals facing extreme adversity.

Writing Style and Tone

Daniel Culler writes in a raw and candid style that immerses readers into the terrifying circumstances he endured. The tone is somber and reflective, effectively conveying the depth of his suffering and emotional turmoil. Culler's firsthand account is both poignant and chilling, allowing readers to empathize with the airmen's plight. The writing is complemented by Rob Morris's introduction and additional notes, which offer valuable historical context and support the narrative's authenticity.

Criticism

Some readers may find the graphic descriptions and bleak nature of the subject matter difficult to engage with, as the book does not shy away from the grim details of Culler's experience. Additionally, those expecting a broader historical overview of World War II's airmen internment may find the book's focus on personal experience to be somewhat narrow.