Summary

Chapter 11 – Paul returns to the front lines during the winter, which passes quickly by. Paul recounts how things that mattered before the war –like social class –no longer matter between soldiers. Detering finds a blooming cherry blossom tree, picks some of the branches, and leaves. He is arrested and no one hears from him again.

Muller is killed after being shot in the stomach, and he gives his boots to Paul, who promises them to Tjaden. Food becomes scarce and now the Germans must also face down American regiments. Tanks, once mocked, are now feared as industrial cities produce thousands of them for use in combat. Bertinck falls while defending Paul and a group of others from a flamethrower. Leer is also killed in the same engagement. Airplanes become more heavily employed in combat as well now.

Katczinsky is wounded in another engagement, and Paul...