Nuclear Holocaust

By far the dominant theme of the text is one of nuclear holocaust. Starting with the moment of detonation the text outlines the immediate effects of an atomic explosion and continues to develop the theme through the ensuing days, months, and years. All of the individuals considered at length in the text are both victim and long-term survivor of the atomic detonation; nearly all of the individuals considered at any length are victims of the detonation.

The theme of nuclear holocaust is developed on several levels. First, the text physically describes the detonation process—first a flash then a concussive blast. The physical effects of the flash and detonation upon structures and geography is considered. The weather is discussed—the blast spawned various forms of rain, high winds, and even tornadoes. The mid- to long-term physiological effects of burns and radiation are considered at length...