The Deserter

"The Deserter" by Richard Harding Davis is a short story written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers on the theme of duty and loyalty, particularly in the context of war. Set during World War I, it explores the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers, particularly through the character of a young American man named Hamlin, who grapples with the temptation to desert the British Army while stationed in Salonika. The story follows Hamlin, who, having been worn down by the harsh realities of trench warfare and physical suffering, considers escaping back home rather than fulfilling his commitment to the army. Interactions with fellow war correspondents emphasize the inner turmoil and conflict he faces as they try to dissuade him from abandoning his post. Despite the hardships he endures, including illness and the brutal conditions of war, Hamlin ultimately realizes that desertion would tarnish the experiences he has gained and the stories he wishes to tell. The narrative culminates in his decision to return to duty, illustrating the complexities of honor, responsibility, and the consequences of one’s choices in times of crisis. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Richard Harding Davis was an American journalist and writer of fiction and drama, known foremost as the first American war correspondent to cover the Spanish–American War, the Second Boer War, and World War I. His writing greatly assisted the political career of Theodore Roosevelt. He also played a major role in the evolution of the American magazine. His influence extended to the world of fashion, and he is credited with making the clean-shaven look popular among men at the turn of the 20th century.