John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a novel that explores the experiences of a young American soldier during World War I. The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows the protagonist, John Andrews, as he navigates the harsh realities of war and grapples with his own identity and beliefs. Dos Passos’ vivid descriptions and powerful imagery provide readers with a glimpse into the horrors of war and the toll it takes on those who fight in it. This article will delve deeper into the themes and motifs present in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” and explore the significance of Dos Passos’ work in the context of American literature.
The Historical Context
The year 1917 was a pivotal moment in world history. The First World War was raging on, and the United States had just entered the conflict. It was a time of great social and political upheaval, with the Russian Revolution and the rise of communism, as well as the growing feminist and civil rights movements. John Dos Passos’ novel, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917,” captures the spirit of this era, exploring the experiences of a young man coming of age in a world that is rapidly changing. Through his protagonist, Dos Passos offers a glimpse into the complex and often contradictory forces that shaped the early 20th century, from the horrors of war to the promise of a new social order. As such, the novel is not only a work of fiction but also a valuable historical document, shedding light on a critical moment in our collective past.
The Author’s Background
John Dos Passos was an American novelist, playwright, and journalist born in Chicago in 1896. He was the son of a wealthy lawyer and a mother who was a descendant of Portuguese nobility. Dos Passos attended Harvard University, where he studied architecture and literature. After serving in World War I as an ambulance driver, he became disillusioned with the government and politics, which would later influence his writing. Dos Passos is best known for his trilogy of novels, “U.S.A.,” which includes “The 42nd Parallel,” “1919,” and “The Big Money.” He was a prolific writer, producing over 40 books in his lifetime. Dos Passos was also a political activist and a member of the Communist Party for a brief period in the 1930s. He died in 1970 in Baltimore, Maryland.
The Structure of the Novel
The structure of John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is unique and complex. The novel is divided into three parts, each with its own distinct style and narrative technique. The first part, titled “The USA,” is a series of vignettes that provide a snapshot of American life during the early 20th century. The second part, “1917,” follows the protagonist, John Andrews, as he enlists in the army and experiences the horrors of World War I. The third and final part, “The Camera Eye,” is a stream-of-consciousness narrative that reflects on the events of the previous two parts and offers a commentary on the state of society. This fragmented structure allows Dos Passos to explore various themes and perspectives, while also highlighting the disjointed nature of modern life. Overall, the structure of “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a testament to Dos Passos’ innovative approach to storytelling.
The Themes of the Novel
One of the central themes of John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is the disillusionment of the American soldier during World War I. The novel follows the journey of protagonist John Andrews as he enlists in the army and is sent to fight in France. Throughout the novel, Andrews witnesses the horrors of war and becomes increasingly disillusioned with the patriotic rhetoric that led him to enlist in the first place.
Another theme explored in the novel is the class divide in American society. Andrews comes from a privileged background and is initially disconnected from the struggles of the working class soldiers he meets in the army. However, as he witnesses the injustices and inequalities of the war, he begins to question his own privilege and the societal structures that perpetuate it.
Dos Passos also explores the theme of identity in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917.” Andrews struggles to reconcile his own sense of self with the expectations placed upon him by society and the military. He grapples with questions of masculinity, patriotism, and morality as he navigates the brutal realities of war.
Overall, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a powerful exploration of the human cost of war and the complex social and political issues that underlie it. Through Andrews’ journey, Dos Passos offers a poignant critique of American society and its values, while also highlighting the resilience and humanity of those who endure the horrors of war.
The Characters in the Novel
John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a novel that is rich in character development. The story follows the journey of a young man named John Andrews as he navigates his way through the tumultuous events of World War I. Along the way, he encounters a diverse cast of characters who help shape his worldview and influence his decisions.
One of the most prominent characters in the novel is Andrews’ friend and fellow soldier, Charley Anderson. Charley is a brash and confident young man who serves as a foil to Andrews’ more reserved and introspective personality. Despite their differences, the two men form a strong bond as they face the horrors of war together.
Another important character in the novel is Andrews’ love interest, Edith Cortlandt. Edith is a wealthy socialite who becomes involved with Andrews after he is injured in battle. She represents a stark contrast to the working-class soldiers that Andrews has been fighting alongside, and her presence in his life forces him to confront his own class biases and prejudices.
Throughout the novel, Dos Passos also introduces a number of minor characters who play important roles in shaping Andrews’ experiences. These include fellow soldiers, nurses, and civilians who offer glimpses into the broader social and political landscape of the time.
Overall, the characters in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the complex realities of life during wartime. Through their interactions with Andrews, Dos Passos offers a nuanced exploration of themes such as class, gender, and the human cost of war.
The Use of Stream of Consciousness
The use of stream of consciousness is a literary technique that allows the reader to experience the inner thoughts and feelings of a character in a more intimate way. John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a prime example of this technique. Throughout the novel, the protagonist, John Andrews, experiences a range of emotions and thoughts as he navigates his way through the chaos of World War I. The use of stream of consciousness allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in Andrews’ mind and experience the war through his eyes. This technique also adds a layer of complexity to the novel, as the reader must navigate through Andrews’ jumbled thoughts and emotions to fully understand his experiences. Overall, the use of stream of consciousness in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” adds depth and complexity to the novel, making it a must-read for fans of modernist literature.
The Role of War in the Novel
In John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917,” war plays a significant role in shaping the protagonist’s experiences and worldview. As a young American soldier sent to fight in World War I, the protagonist is exposed to the horrors of trench warfare and the senseless violence of battle. These experiences leave a lasting impact on him, causing him to question the values and beliefs he once held dear. Through his interactions with other soldiers and civilians, the protagonist comes to understand the devastating toll that war takes on individuals and society as a whole. Ultimately, war serves as a catalyst for the protagonist’s personal growth and transformation, as he grapples with the complexities of human nature and the meaning of sacrifice. Dos Passos’ portrayal of war in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the importance of striving for peace.
The Criticism of American Society
John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a scathing critique of American society during the early 20th century. Through the eyes of his protagonist, John Andrews, Dos Passos exposes the corruption, inequality, and hypocrisy that pervaded American society at the time.
One of the main criticisms that Dos Passos makes is of the capitalist system. He portrays the wealthy as greedy and exploitative, while the working class is depicted as struggling to make ends meet. Andrews himself is a member of the middle class, but he is disillusioned with the American Dream and the idea that hard work will lead to success.
Dos Passos also criticizes the government and the military. He portrays the government as corrupt and ineffective, and the military as brutal and dehumanizing. Andrews’ experiences in the army are particularly harrowing, as he witnesses the horrors of war and the callousness of those in power.
Overall, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a powerful indictment of American society during a tumultuous time in its history. Dos Passos’ critique is still relevant today, as many of the issues he addresses – such as income inequality and government corruption – continue to plague American society.
The Influence of Modernism
The influence of modernism can be seen throughout John Dos Passos’ novel, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917.” Modernism was a literary movement that emerged in the early 20th century and was characterized by a focus on individualism, experimentation with form and language, and a rejection of traditional values and conventions. Dos Passos’ novel embodies many of these characteristics, particularly in its fragmented structure and use of multiple narrative perspectives. The novel also explores themes of disillusionment and alienation, which were common themes in modernist literature. Overall, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a prime example of the influence of modernism on American literature.
The Reception of the Novel
The reception of John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” was mixed upon its initial publication in 1920. Some critics praised the novel’s experimental style and its portrayal of the disillusionment and trauma experienced by soldiers during World War I. Others, however, found the fragmented narrative and use of stream-of-consciousness techniques confusing and difficult to follow. Despite these mixed reviews, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” has since been recognized as a significant work of modernist literature and a powerful commentary on the human cost of war.
The Significance of the Title
The title of John Dos Passos’ novel, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917,” holds great significance in understanding the themes and motifs present throughout the book. The word “initiation” suggests a rite of passage, a journey of self-discovery and growth. In this case, the protagonist, John Andrews, is initiated into the harsh realities of war and the complexities of human relationships. The year 1917 is also significant as it marks the United States’ entry into World War I, a pivotal moment in history that greatly impacted the lives of many. The title sets the tone for the novel, hinting at the challenges and transformations that await the protagonist and the world around him.
The Literary Techniques Used
In “One Man’s Initiation: 1917,” John Dos Passos employs a variety of literary techniques to convey the chaos and confusion of World War I. One of the most prominent techniques is the use of stream-of-consciousness narration, which allows the reader to experience the protagonist’s thoughts and emotions in real-time. This technique is particularly effective in conveying the disorienting nature of war, as the protagonist’s thoughts jump from one subject to another in a seemingly random fashion. Additionally, Dos Passos uses fragmented and disjointed sentence structures to further emphasize the sense of dislocation and disorientation. Another technique employed by Dos Passos is the use of multiple narrators, each with their own unique perspective on the war. This allows the reader to see the conflict from multiple angles, and to gain a more nuanced understanding of the complex political and social issues at play. Overall, the literary techniques used in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” serve to create a vivid and immersive portrayal of the horrors of war, and to highlight the profound impact that such conflicts can have on individuals and societies alike.
The Symbolism in the Novel
One of the most striking aspects of John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is the use of symbolism throughout the novel. From the recurring image of the American flag to the representation of the war as a machine, Dos Passos employs various symbols to convey his message about the disillusionment and destruction of World War I.
One of the most prominent symbols in the novel is the American flag, which appears repeatedly throughout the text. However, rather than being a symbol of patriotism and national pride, the flag is often depicted as a tool of propaganda and manipulation. For example, in one scene, the protagonist, John Andrews, sees a group of soldiers marching with the flag and realizes that they are being used as “a symbol of something they didn’t understand.” This suggests that the flag has been co-opted by those in power to justify the war and manipulate the public into supporting it.
Another powerful symbol in the novel is the war machine itself. Dos Passos frequently describes the war in mechanical terms, depicting soldiers as cogs in a vast, impersonal machine. This imagery emphasizes the dehumanizing effects of war and underscores the sense of futility and despair that pervades the novel.
Overall, the symbolism in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” serves to underscore the novel’s themes of disillusionment, destruction, and the dehumanizing effects of war. By using powerful and evocative symbols, Dos Passos creates a vivid and haunting portrait of a world torn apart by conflict.
The Use of Historical Figures
In John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917,” the author makes use of historical figures to add depth and authenticity to his narrative. Throughout the novel, readers encounter real-life figures such as Woodrow Wilson, General Pershing, and Eugene Debs. By incorporating these individuals into the story, Dos Passos is able to provide a more nuanced and accurate portrayal of the time period in which the novel is set. Additionally, the use of historical figures allows Dos Passos to explore the complex political and social issues of the era through the perspectives of those who were directly involved. Overall, the inclusion of historical figures in “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” serves to enhance the novel’s realism and provide readers with a more comprehensive understanding of the events and ideas of the time.
The Connection to Dos Passos’ Other Works
One Man’s Initiation: 1917 is not the only work by John Dos Passos that explores the themes of war and disillusionment. In fact, it is part of a larger trilogy of novels that includes The 42nd Parallel and 1919. Together, these works are known as the U.S.A. trilogy and are considered Dos Passos’ most significant contribution to American literature.
Like One Man’s Initiation: 1917, the U.S.A. trilogy is a sprawling, multi-narrative work that incorporates a variety of literary techniques, including stream-of-consciousness, newsreel, and biographical sketches. The trilogy follows the lives of various characters as they navigate the tumultuous events of the early 20th century, including World War I, the rise of industrialization, and the struggles of the working class.
Despite the similarities in theme and style, One Man’s Initiation: 1917 stands out as a unique work within the U.S.A. trilogy. While the other novels focus on a wide range of characters and perspectives, One Man’s Initiation: 1917 is a more personal and introspective work that centers on the experiences of one individual. This allows Dos Passos to delve deeper into the psychological effects of war and the disillusionment that many soldiers felt upon returning home.
Overall, the U.S.A. trilogy and One Man’s Initiation: 1917 are both powerful works that offer a unique perspective on American history and society. By exploring the connections between these works, readers can gain a deeper understanding of Dos Passos’ literary vision and the themes that he sought to explore throughout his career.
The Impact on American Literature
John Dos Passos’ “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” had a significant impact on American literature. The novel is a prime example of the modernist movement, which emerged in the early 20th century and sought to break away from traditional literary forms and styles. Dos Passos’ use of fragmented narratives, stream-of-consciousness writing, and multiple perspectives was groundbreaking and influenced many writers who came after him.
In addition to its stylistic innovations, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” also tackled important social and political issues of the time, such as the impact of World War I on American society and the struggles of working-class Americans. The novel’s themes of disillusionment, alienation, and the search for identity resonated with readers and helped to establish Dos Passos as a major voice in American literature.
Overall, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” was a significant contribution to the modernist movement and helped to shape the direction of American literature in the 20th century. Its influence can still be seen in the works of contemporary writers who continue to experiment with form and explore important social and political issues in their writing.
The Cultural Significance of the Novel
John Dos Passos’ novel “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” holds immense cultural significance as it captures the essence of the American experience during World War I. The novel is a reflection of the social and political changes that were taking place in America during the early 20th century. It is a portrayal of the disillusionment and confusion that the war brought to the American people.
The novel is a part of the literary movement known as modernism, which emerged in the early 20th century. Modernist writers sought to break away from traditional forms of literature and explore new ways of expressing themselves. Dos Passos’ novel is a prime example of this movement as it employs a unique narrative style that combines different literary techniques such as stream of consciousness, montage, and fragmented storytelling.
The novel also explores themes of identity, class, and power. The protagonist, John Andrews, is a young man who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is torn between his loyalty to his country and his disillusionment with the war. Through his experiences, Dos Passos highlights the class divide that existed in America at the time and the power dynamics that were at play.
Overall, “One Man’s Initiation: 1917” is a significant work of literature that captures the cultural and social changes that were taking place in America during the early 20th century. It is a reflection of the American experience during World War I and a testament to the power of literature to capture the complexities of human experience.