Meaning: This quote is from the novel "All Quiet on the Western Front" by Erich Maria Remarque. The book, first published in 1928, is a powerful and poignant anti-war novel that provides a harrowing account of the experiences of German soldiers during World War I. The quote captures a scene of chaos and violence, depicting the dehumanizing effects of war on both the soldiers and the civilians caught in the crossfire.

In this particular passage, the narrator describes a tumultuous and chaotic scene as the soldiers push through a crowd. The crowd is described as shouting and giving way before the soldiers, indicating a sense of fear and disarray. The mention of women holding their aprons over their faces and stumbling away suggests the intense distress and panic experienced by the civilians in the midst of the soldiers' advance. The roar of fury that goes up and the sight of a wounded man being carried off further contribute to the atmosphere of violence and suffering.

The quote encapsulates the sense of brutality and devastation that characterizes the war depicted in the novel. Remarque's vivid and evocative language allows the reader to viscerally experience the chaos and horror of war, highlighting the profound impact it has on both the combatants and the innocent bystanders. The image of women covering their faces with their aprons and stumbling away illustrates the human cost of conflict, emphasizing the widespread suffering and trauma inflicted by war.

Through this quote, Remarque effectively conveys the sense of desolation and anguish that permeates the novel. The use of sensory details and emotive language creates a vivid and haunting portrayal of the war's toll on individuals and communities. The wounded man being carried off serves as a poignant reminder of the physical and emotional wounds inflicted by war, underscoring the devastating consequences of armed conflict.

Overall, this quote from "All Quiet on the Western Front" encapsulates the novel's central themes of the dehumanizing effects of war, the loss of innocence, and the profound suffering experienced by those caught in its wake. Remarque's powerful prose and poignant imagery combine to deliver a compelling and heart-wrenching narrative that continues to resonate with readers, offering a stark reminder of the tragic realities of war and its enduring impact on humanity.

In summary, the quote captures a pivotal moment in the novel, conveying the chaos, fear, and devastation that define the wartime experience portrayed in "All Quiet on the Western Front." Remarque's evocative storytelling and poignant imagery serve to illuminate the profound human cost of war, leaving a lasting impression on readers and compelling them to confront the harsh realities of armed conflict.