By-ways on Service: Notes from an Australian Journal

"By-ways on Service: Notes from an Australian Journal" by Hector Dinning is a collection of personal sketches written during the early 20th century. The book compiles various impressions and experiences from Dinning's time in the Australian Imperial Expeditionary Force during World War I, covering places like Egypt and the trenches of Gallipoli. It likely addresses themes of war, camaraderie, and the juxtaposition between the soldier's life and the landscapes they traverse, offering a vivid glimpse into a soldier's psyche during tumultuous times. The opening portion of the work discusses the author's reflections on his journey with the Australian troops, starting from their embarkation in Australia through their experiences aboard a troop ship. Dinning humorously conveys the mixed emotions surrounding their departure, highlighting moments of camaraderie among the soldiers as well as poignant farewells to loved ones left behind. He paints a picture of life on the troop ship, detailing the routines like mealtimes and drills, and he shares observations of their transition from the familiar comforts of home to the harsh realities of military life. Through these reflections, readers can sense the tension between youthful exuberance and the solemn weight of impending conflict.