As the Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel warned years ago, to forget a holocaust is to kill twice.
In her book, "The Rape of Nanking," author Iris Chang emphasizes the importance of remembering historical atrocities, particularly the Nanking Massacre during World War II. She highlights the profound impact of forgetting such events, suggesting that it not only disrespects the victims but also allows similar horrors to recur. Chang draws on the poignant words of Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel, who asserted that forgetting a Holocaust is akin to committing a second crime against those who suffered.
By invoking Wiesel's warning, Chang underscores the need for collective memory and awareness to confront history's brutal realities. She believes that acknowledging past tragedies is vital for justice and healing, echoing the sentiment that historical amnesia can lead to repeated violence. Thus, "The Rape of Nanking" serves not only as a historical account but also as a call to action, urging readers to bear witness and remember to prevent future atrocities.