"One Man's Initiation: 1917" is a semi-autobiographical novel by John Dos Passos, set against the backdrop of World War I. The story follows a young American named Johnny, who enlists and grapples with the harsh realities of war. Through Johnny's eyes, readers experience the transformation from youthful idealism to the grim understanding of conflict’s true nature, exploring themes of disillusionment and loss of innocence.
The narrative captures the chaos of war, highlighting the experiences of different characters who symbolize various facets of society during this tumultuous period. The novel delves into the psychological impact of the war on soldiers, as they confront the stark difference between their expectations and the brutal experience of battle.
Dos Passos employs vivid imagery and a fragmented narrative style to evoke the urgency and turmoil of the time. This approach makes the reader reflect on the broader implications of war, not only on the individual but also on society as a whole, emphasizing the lasting scars that such profound experiences can leave behind.