Understanding the Literary Style of Hiroshima

The literary style and form of the book Hiroshima by John Hersey can be described in a simple and easy-to-understand way. Hiroshima is a work of narrative non-fiction that tells the story of six survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. The book is written in a straightforward and objective style, using simple language and clear descriptions to recount the experiences of the survivors.

One key feature of the book's form is its use of a chronological narrative structure, which means that the events are presented in the order in which they occurred. This makes it easy for readers to follow along and understand the sequence of events. For example, the book begins with the morning of the bombing and then progresses through the aftermath and the survivors' experiences in the days and weeks that follow.

Another important aspect of the literary style is the use of personal accounts and eyewitness testimony. Hersey interviewed the six survivors extensively, and their stories form the heart of the book. These firsthand narratives help readers connect with the human experiences of the bombing and its aftermath. For example, the book includes detailed descriptions of what each survivor was doing at the moment of the explosion and how they reacted to the devastation around them.

The overall language and tone of Hiroshima are simple and direct, which makes it accessible for readers of all ages. Hersey's writing style is focused on conveying the experiences of the survivors in a clear and honest way, without embellishment or excessive literary devices.

In conclusion, the literary style and form of Hiroshima can be characterized by its straightforward and chronological narrative structure, its reliance on personal testimonies, and its simple and accessible writing style, all of which work together to provide a clear and powerful account of the human impact of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.