War

War - the Civil War - is one of the main themes of the story. While the book focuses on the Civil War, it is clear that the spoils and devastation that comes along with war is not specific to any conflict or battle but a universal feeling, event and dilemma. This war and its effects are examined in detail by the author, mostly through the experiences of Bushrod Carter and Anna Hereford - soldier and the woman that cared for him and grew to love him during that emotional and horrific time.

The soldiers have many ways of coping with war, including the stress, hunger and exhaustion. Bushrod writes in his book and tries to distract himself with his friends. Bushrod tries not to think that the enemy, who are referred to as Strangers, are people much like him as he faces them on the battlefield.

"Ordinarily...