Symbolism In All Quiet On The Western Front

Throughout the novel the radio symbolizes a widespread social problem demonstrates people in general neglecting the need for quality human interaction. A perfect example of this problem is Werner. When in contact with loved ones at the beginning and end of the novel Werner was overall happier than when secluding himself from them. When requesting to travel home was brutally refused by Dr.Hauptmann, Werner shows signs of depression when thinking, “I cannot go home, he thinks. And I cannot stay.” (272). This also exposes Werner grieving the beating of Frederick, resulting in losing his best friend as well. Werner enters an even darker psychological state when refusing to write Jutta back, which is most likely a variable of his sickness during
the war. Werner’s rapid deterioration of perspective is shown through suicidal thoughts in the cellar, “bolt actions Karabiner 98k loaded with five round. Enough, thinks Werner.” (210). Needs for human interaction are presented through other characters such as Etienne who suffered less PTSD symptoms when developing a relationship with Maire-Laure as well as Volkheimer who showed characteristics of depression at an older age when self-employed secluding himself from the outer world by hiding in his apartment. Human interaction should be viewed in a positive manner, as an easy opportunity for health benefits which can also be achieved by standing up for what you believe in.