Meaning: The quote you provided is an excerpt from the book "Hiroshima" by John Hersey. The book is a journalistic account of the experiences of six survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, on August 6, 1945. The quote describes the aftermath of the bombing and the onset of symptoms experienced by survivors in the days following the attack.

In the quote, Hersey describes the second stage of the aftermath of the bombing, which typically occurred ten to fifteen days after the initial explosion. This period marked a critical phase in the survivors' experiences as they began to exhibit symptoms of radiation sickness. The first symptom mentioned is falling hair, a condition known as alopecia, which is a common consequence of exposure to high levels of radiation. This physical manifestation of radiation exposure often served as a visible and distressing sign of the impact of the bombing on the survivors.

Following the onset of hair loss, the quote mentions two additional symptoms: diarrhea and fever. These symptoms are characteristic of acute radiation syndrome, also known as radiation sickness, which occurs when the body is exposed to high doses of ionizing radiation. The severity of the fever, reaching as high as 106 degrees Fahrenheit in some cases, underscores the magnitude of the physiological impact on the survivors.

The quote provides a stark and harrowing depiction of the physical toll of the atomic bombing on the human body. It conveys the rapid and devastating progression of symptoms experienced by the survivors as they grappled with the immediate aftermath of the catastrophic event. Hersey's account serves to humanize the experiences of those affected by the bombing, offering a poignant portrayal of the individual suffering and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

John Hersey's "Hiroshima" is widely regarded as a seminal work of non-fiction that brought attention to the human stories behind the devastation of the atomic bomb. By focusing on the personal narratives of the survivors, Hersey's book challenged prevailing narratives about the bombing and its aftermath, offering a compelling and empathetic exploration of the human impact of nuclear warfare.

The quote you provided encapsulates the physical and emotional trauma experienced by the survivors in the aftermath of the bombing, highlighting the profound and enduring effects of the event. Through his meticulous and compassionate storytelling, Hersey brought attention to the enduring legacy of the atomic bomb and the imperative of understanding its consequences on individual lives.

In conclusion, the quote from John Hersey's "Hiroshima" offers a poignant glimpse into the physical and emotional toll of the atomic bombing on the survivors. It serves as a testament to the resilience and suffering of those who endured the aftermath of the catastrophic event, and it underscores the human cost of nuclear warfare. Hersey's work continues to be a powerful and essential account of the enduring impact of the bombing, and the quote you provided exemplifies his profound and empathetic approach to storytelling.