Lessons from Sarajevo: A War Stories Primer

Examining the representation of war, the author delves into how narratives shape public perception and policy in a democratic society. By analyzing various forms of media—from journalism to art—he critiques the sentimental tradition and explores more nuanced expressions of conflict. The book draws on historical examples, including Whitman's Civil War writings and contemporary conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, to highlight the complexities of perspective. Ultimately, it advocates for a critical understanding of war stories that challenge fixed roles of victims, observers, and aggressors.