Barbarians

"Barbarians" by Robert W. Chambers is a story set during World War I that shows different people struggling with war and politics. The tale centers on soldiers and other people who are unhappy and searching for meaning in their lives during the conflict. As the story begins, a group of men leave America, wanting to find something they feel is missing, like a purpose or to save themselves. On a ship, we meet Carfax, a soldier looking for adventure; Harry Stent, a rich person seeking thrills; and Jacques Wayland, a writer hurt in the war. These characters go on a journey filled with personal challenges and tough truths, all while big historical events happen around them; the mood of the narrative is thoughtful, hinting at deeper ideas about what war does to people's souls.