Meaning: The quote "The later it gets the more disturbed the city becomes. I go with Albert through the streets. Men are standing in groups at every corner. Rumours are flying. It is said that the military have already fired on a procession of demonstrating workers." by Erich Remarque, encapsulates the atmosphere of tension and unease in a city during a time of social and political upheaval. This quote is from Remarque's novel "All Quiet on the Western Front," a powerful and poignant depiction of the experiences of soldiers during World War I. The novel provides a raw and unflinching portrayal of the impact of war on individuals and society, and the quote reflects the broader themes of chaos, fear, and uncertainty that are prevalent throughout the book.

In the context of the novel, the city is depicted as a microcosm of the wider social and political turmoil that characterized the time period. As the night progresses, the city becomes increasingly unsettled, with men congregating on street corners and rumors spreading rapidly. The mention of the military firing on demonstrating workers underscores the volatility and potential for violence that permeates the city. This portrayal of urban unrest serves to highlight the pervasive atmosphere of fear and instability that defines the wartime setting of the novel.

The quote also conveys a sense of personal unease and disorientation experienced by the protagonist as he navigates through the city. The use of first-person narration ("I go with Albert through the streets") brings a sense of immediacy and intimacy to the description, allowing the reader to empathize with the characters' feelings of apprehension and vulnerability in the face of the city's escalating turmoil. This subjective perspective adds depth to the portrayal of the city as a place fraught with tension and uncertainty.

Erich Maria Remarque, the author of "All Quiet on the Western Front," drew upon his own experiences as a German soldier during World War I to infuse the novel with authenticity and emotional resonance. Remarque's firsthand knowledge of the harsh realities of war lends credibility to his portrayal of the city as a troubled and volatile environment. Through his evocative prose, Remarque captures the pervasive atmosphere of apprehension and unrest that characterized the wartime cities, effectively immersing the reader in the tumultuous and chaotic urban landscape.

In conclusion, the quote "The later it gets the more disturbed the city becomes..." from "All Quiet on the Western Front" encapsulates the atmosphere of fear, tension, and uncertainty that permeates the city during a time of social and political upheaval. Through vivid and evocative language, Remarque conveys the sense of unease and disarray that defines the urban environment, while also providing a poignant insight into the personal experiences of the characters as they navigate through the tumultuous cityscape. This quote serves as a powerful representation of the broader themes of chaos and instability that are central to the novel, and it remains a compelling and evocative reflection of the impact of war on individuals and society.