The Ways of War

"The Ways of War" by Tom Kettle is a heartfelt reflection from an Irish soldier and intellectual during World War I, revealing the complicated intersection of nationalism, political beliefs, and the sorrowful truths of warfare. The book kicks off with a personal memoir by Kettle's wife, Mary S. Kettle, painting a picture of her husband's reasons for enlisting in the war. She emphasizes his identity as a passionate nationalist who, despite his love for peace, found himself driven to stand up for justice, freedom, and the protection of smaller countries against oppressors such as Germany. She offers insights into Kettle's scholarly background, his idealism, and his belief that Ireland's destiny was linked to the bigger picture of Europe. As the story moves forward, it becomes clear that Tom Kettle was not only a soldier but also a complicated person wrestling with ideas such as war, freedom, and identity, and ultimately offering a personal view of the conflict engulfing Europe.