In "Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania," Erik Larson explores the tragic sinking of the Lusitania, a luxury ocean liner, during World War I. This historical narrative delves into the lives of those on board, weaving personal stories with the larger backdrop of the war. The events surrounding the Lusitania serve as a poignant reminder of the human impact of global conflicts, as families on the ship faced unimaginable loss amid a world at war.

Larson highlights the paradox of significant events often overshadowing individual experiences, as he reflects on the quote: "Why in the midst of great events there always seems to be a family so misnamed is one of the imponderables of history." This suggests that amidst monumental occurrences, the stories of families can become obscured or misrepresented, highlighting the complexities of history where personal tragedy intertwines with collective disaster.