In Erik Larson's "Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania," the author describes the Lusitania as an impressive and formidable presence on the ocean. The ship, likened to a floating village made of steel, embodies both power and elegance as it moves silently through the night, leaving a striking silhouette against the dark waters.

This vivid imagery emphasizes the ship’s grandeur and the false sense of security it provided to its passengers, suggesting an invulnerability that would soon be shattered by tragedy. Larson's depiction highlights the contrast between the Lusitania's majestic appearance and the peril it ultimately faced during its ill-fated voyage.