Attack An Infantry Subaltern's Impression of July 1st, 1916   By: Edward G. D. (Edward George Downing) Liveing (1895-1963)

In the poignant memoir, Attack, Edward G. D. Liveing beautifully encapsulates his personal experiences as an infantry subaltern on July 1st, 1916. Through his vivid recollections, Liveing offers readers a raw and authentic insight into the horrors of World War I.

Liveing's prose is both gripping and reflective, immersing the reader in the chaos and brutality of the battlefield. His narrative style effortlessly evokes a sense of urgency and immediacy, leaving you hanging onto every word as if you were right there in the trenches alongside him. The author's meticulous attention to detail creates vivid imagery, painting a harrowing picture of the grim reality faced by soldiers during the Great War.

What sets Attack apart from other accounts of the war is Liveing's unwavering honesty and sincerity. While many war stories celebrate heroism or glorify the battlefield, Liveing does not shy away from exposing the true nature of warfare. He courageously reveals the immense physical and psychological toll that the war exacted upon him and his comrades. The emotional depth in his writing allows the reader to empathize with the soldiers' fears, hopes, and the ever-present specter of death that loomed over them.

Moreover, Attack provides a unique perspective on the Battle of the Somme, specifically on the disastrous first day. Liveing's impression of July 1st, 1916, showcases the immense strategic failures and human cost of this now-infamous offensive. By sharing his personal experiences, the author helps to humanize the statistics and remind readers of the countless lives lost in this ill-fated campaign.

While the narrative primarily focuses on the author's own experiences, Liveing also offers glimpses into the camaraderie and relationships forged during war. His portrayal of the bond between soldiers underscores the strength and resilience required to endure such unimaginable hardship. Through his anecdotes and interactions with fellow soldiers, Liveing reveals the rich humanity that can persist amidst the harshest circumstances.

In conclusion, Attack: An Infantry Subaltern's Impression of July 1st, 1916 is a masterfully written memoir that brings to life the horrors and devastation of World War I. Edward G. D. Liveing's intimate account offers a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of the soldiers who valiantly fought, suffered, and endured the unimaginable. This book serves as an important reminder of the true costs of war and the bravery of those who faced it head-on.

First Page:

Of a Battalion of the County of London Regiment, whom I had the good fortune to command in France during 1915 1916, and in particular to the memory of RFN... Continue reading book >>