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Cover of To-morrow and to-morrow ... a novel

To-morrow and to-morrow ... a novel

Written by Stephen McKenna

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Great BritainMan-woman relationshipsSpouses

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About this book

"To-morrow and to-morrow" by Stephen McKenna is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins during the tense moments surrounding the armistice of World War I, focusing on characters navigating the uncertain transition from war to peace. Central to the narrative is George, who, alongside others, grapples with the ramifications of a newfound peace and contemplates the future implications of their experiences during the war. The opening portion sets the stage just before the armistice is signed, and we see George's internal struggle with the reality of peace settling in after years of conflict. Conversations between him and Captain Hornbeck reveal a mixture of hope and trepidation regarding the future. As George heads home to share the news of peace with his wife, Barbara, we glimpse her frail state, emphasizing the toll the war has taken on individuals. The rich tapestry of characters and their emotional turmoil promises a deep exploration of personal and societal change amidst the backdrop of historical events, engaging readers with themes of loss, adjustment, and the search for meaning in the aftermath of chaos.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in To-morrow and to-morrow ... a novel, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Introspective
  • Somber
  • Hopeful

Stephen McKenna's "To-morrow and to-morrow" plunges readers into the immediate aftermath of World War I, capturing the profound psychological and societal shift from conflict to an uncertain peace. The narrative centers on George, a returning soldier, as he grapples with the emotional complexities of the armistice, finding the silence of peace as disorienting as the clamor of war. His internal struggles are mirrored in the fragile health of his wife, Barbara, symbolizing the war's pervasive toll on individuals and relationships. Through a tapestry of characters and their emotional turmoil, the novel explores themes of loss, adaptation, and the arduous search for meaning in a world irrevocably altered by global conflict, painting a poignant picture of a generation facing an unknown future.

“"The silence, George thought, was louder than any cannon fire. It was the sound of a world holding its breath, waiting for a future no one could truly envision."”

Key themes

The Aftermath of War and Transition to Peace
This theme explores the profound psychological, emotional, and societal challenges faced by individuals and nations in moving from a state of intense conflict to an uncertain peace. It delves into the disorientation felt by soldiers returning home and the difficulties of re-adjusting to civilian life and domesticity.
Loss, Grief, and the Search for Meaning
The novel examines the pervasive sense of loss—not only of life but also of innocence, certainty, and a former way of life—that permeates the post-war era. Characters grapple with grief for what has been lost and embark on an arduous search for new purpose and understanding in a world irrevocably changed.
Man-Woman Relationships Under Strain
This theme delves into how the immense pressures of war and its aftermath affect intimate relationships, particularly between spouses. It explores the challenges of reconnection, the emotional distance created by divergent experiences, and the effort required to rebuild bonds in a new reality.

Worth discussing

How does McKenna portray the psychological impact of the armistice on soldiers like George, particularly the transition from a state of war to one of peace?

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