In Erik Larson's "Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania," the author explores the intricate dynamics of the passengers aboard the ill-fated ship, highlighting the varied attitudes they held towards the modern era. Some travelers were disillusioned, harboring grievances about the rapid changes and advancements that characterized their time. This sentiment reflects a broader resistance to the implications of modernity, revealing a sense of nostalgia for the past.

Larson delves into the personal stories and emotional landscapes of these individuals, illustrating how their ambitions and anxieties influenced their experiences on the Lusitania. The contrast between those who embraced progress and those who resisted it adds depth to the narrative, serving as a poignant backdrop to the tragedy that unfolds. Through these perspectives, Larson captures the tensions of a society grappling with the repercussions of modernization during a period of great turmoil.