Alienation : All Quiet On The Western Front

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The Alienation of a Generation


It is expected of all young adults to carry a college degree before entering the working world today. In Erich Maria Remarques All Quiet On The Western Front, Paul Baumer is forced into war like young adults are forced into college. Such pressure from society creates a feeling of distrust and alienation.
Paul Baumer was a German soldier who left for war at 19. Although students can visit their campus before they enroll, there is no sure way to predict the outcome. They leave their homes in favor of communal bathrooms and lectures. Paul Baumer left the comfort of his home with effort to fulfill duty to his country.
At 19 years of age, there have not been many experiences in ones life. A sense of identity is in its infancy, as the quest for confidence poses new challenges everyday. Students are required to declare a major, and Paul Baumer was required to fire a gun. Though both situations are different, the anxiety and pressures are parallel.
As the war progressed Paul expressed, “ We were all at once terribly alone; and alone we must see it through.” He went on to describe how his generation felt cut off from the world. College freshman are likely to express similar feelings. Although they have classmates, roommates and hall mates, this is most likely the first time they act as independents. Hall mates become comrades. Differences among individuals, from religious beliefs to ideal goals serve as standard boundaries between such comrades.

Not all soldiers viewed the war as tragic. There were the few who remained proud, in honor of their country. Such pride can be found in that scholar who is the first of their family to pursue a college education. Many students aspire to continue their education for their own benefit. Economic incentive drives most individuals as well as nations to push for more. It is these examples of extreme pride that grant soldiers, students and ...