Remarque’s writings have been called “a pacifist indictment against war”. In his stories, he told of people whose dreams and hopes were taken away by war. However, despite everything, they did not lose the gift of love and appreciate the fragile moments of happiness. By the author’s birthday – 22 June – we tell you what his novels are worth reading this summer.
Remarque’s novels worth reading
“On the Western Front, no change.”
A novel that Remarque wrote based on his experiences during the First World War. The protagonist-Paul Boehmer-falls to the front at a very young age. There, while still alive, he goes through a real hell.
This book was banned and even burned in Germany. The author himself emphasised that he did not write an exposé or confession. According to Remarque, his novel became a way to give voice to the voices of the generation that was ruined by the war.
“The Three Comrades
The story of three friends-Robert, Otto, Gottfried-who try to rebuild their lives after the horrors of World War I. Although clouds are once again gathering over Europe, they try to capture their moment of joy.
Eventually, Robert meets the beautiful Patricia. Happiness seems so close, however, in Remarque’s novels hepiends do not actually happen.
“Arc de Triomphe.”
This novel Remarque wrote, rethinking his relationship with the actress Marlene Dietrich. It is the memories of their history, he embodied in the images of the main characters of the novel – a concentration camp survivor Ludwig (Ravik) and Joan Madou. They meet in Paris, when the world – on the threshold of the Second World War.
“Life on Loan.”
The story of a young Belgian girl, Liliane, who is trying to recover from the war. The girl survived starvation, flight and hiding from the Nazis. And just when it seemed that a little bit of joy could finally be had, Liliane is forced to fight each new day in a deadly illness. During such a difficult time, love appears in her life.
Today is the 127th anniversary of Remarque’s birth. And his novels remain very relevant. So many years have passed, but once again people have to fight the greatest evil.