The March

THE MARCH
by E.L. Doctorow

 Awards: National Book Critics Circle 2005, PEN/Faulkner 2006

 Nominations: Dublin Longlist 2007, LA Times Finalist 2005, National Book Finalist 2005, Pulitzer Finalist 2006

 Date Read: June 4, 2019

 The March follows the Union Army during the Civil War, as they march through the south, gaining displaced slaves, prisoners of war, and service members as they go. As time progresses, the march almost becomes an organism unto itself, ever growing and ever moving forward, self-healing and marching toward an uncertain end. As with all human constructs, the march is comprised of noble acts and the worst humanity has to offer.

 Through Doctorow's brilliant storytelling and ability to construct vivid realities nearly a century after they occur, we are reminded of the waste that is war - waste of property, waste of life and waste of spirit. War has a tendency to place people's morals on pause and the most egregious behavior becomes accepted, if not justified. In large part, the most necessary aspects of society deteriorate but are still required - schools, hospitals, commerce.

 Throughout this novel, I couldn't help but marvel at the strange limbo the slaves must have endured as this war waged on over four long years. Many weren't yet free, knew freedom was coming but still had to endure the brutal reality they had lived with all their lives. 

 With some characters more memorable than others, I found myself occasionally getting lost in the story, unable to match a character's background narrative with their current actions. Full disclosure: My eyes seem to glaze over at the mention of the Civil War, which is a frustrating truth. The Civil War was one of the most important wars ever fought with the most noble of principles being defended - the autonomy of human beings, regardless of the color of their skin - and yet, it's hard for me to muster enthusiasm for these tales.

 Regardless of my limitations around the subject matter, I continue to marvel at Doctorow's genius and once again am in awe of his gift.

 Looking Forward: The Book Of Daniel, Loon Lake, Ragtime, World's Fair

Looking Back: Billy Bathgate

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