In 'Storm of Steel', Ernst Junger presents a gripping firsthand account of World War I from the perspective of a German soldier. Through harrowing battles and intense moments of introspection, Junger explores the brutal realities of warfare and its profound effects on the human spirit. With vivid imagery and stark honesty, he immerses readers in the chaos of the trenches, where courage and despair intertwine. This powerful memoir transcends mere historical record, delving into themes of survival, camaraderie, and the essence of life amidst destruction. Prepare to be captivated by Junger's masterful storytelling and his unflinching examination of the fragility of humanity in times of strife.
By Ernst Junger
Published: 2004
"In the midst of chaos, I found the fragility of life and the clarity of purpose; war is not only the destruction it brings, but also the revelation of one's own essence."
The memoir widely viewed as the best account ever written of fighting in WW1 A memoir of astonishing power, savagery, and ashen lyricism, Storm of Steel illuminates not only the horrors but also the fascination of total war, seen through the eyes of an ordinary German soldier. Young, tough, patriotic, but also disturbingly self-aware, Jünger exulted in the Great War, which he saw not just as a great national conflict but—more importantly—as a unique personal struggle. Leading raiding parties, defending trenches against murderous British incursions, simply enduring as shells tore his comrades apart, Jünger kept testing himself, braced for the death that will mark his failure. Published shortly after the war’s end, Storm of Steel was a worldwide bestseller and can now be rediscovered through Michael Hofmann’s brilliant new translation. For more than sixty-five years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,500 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
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“In the midst of chaos, I found the fragility of life and the clarity of purpose; war is not only the destruction it brings, but also the revelation of one's own essence.”
Storm of Steel
By Ernst Junger
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ernst Junger (1895-1998) was a distinguished German author, philosopher, and veteran known for his profound literary contributions and reflections on war, nature, and the human condition. His notable works include 'Storm of Steel' (1920), a vivid and harrowing account of his experiences in World War I, and 'The Glass Bees' (1953), a philosophical exploration of technology and human existence. Junger's writing is often characterized by its dense prose, philosophical depth, and a blend of personal experience with broader existential themes. Throughout his long career, he navigated various genres, including essays, fiction, and political commentary, establishing himself as a significant figure in 20th-century literature.
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