Lovely War

Through December of 1917, James and Hazel exchange letters. They ask each other questions about their childhoods, their plans for the future, and their day-to-day lives. Some of the content is serious, such as James’s updates about preparations for the front; some is more lighthearted, such as what they would name future cats and dogs, and details about their favorite books, James’s siblings, and their friends.

Aubrey and the other 40 members of his division are transported across France from Brest toward the encampment near the front via train. The night is freezing. It is 2 a.m. The men sing together to take their minds off the cold and their fear, adding percussion by tapping the sides of the train car.

Hazel arrives in Saint-Nazaire, France, on January 4, 1918. She is volunteering with the YMCA, entertaining Allied soldiers by playing the piano. She learns that she will be playing for American soldiers—except for those housed in the “Negro hut.” Mrs. Davies, the YMCA head secretary stationed at the camp, explains that this is for Hazel’s safety. Hazel suggests that she was sent to entertain all the soldiers, and that this should include the Black soldiers.