During the Hitler regime, there was a significant belief in the power of books, demonstrated by the act of burning them. This act symbolizes how literature was seen as both influential and dangerous, leading to efforts to suppress ideas that challenged the prevailing ideology. Such drastic measures indicate that society understood the impact of written words on thought and culture.

In the context of contemporary literature, "Europe Central" by William T. Vollmann offers a complex narrative that explores themes of history and human experience. It serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of books, illustrating how powerful storytelling can both shape and reflect societal values and conflicts, even in turbulent times.