Meaning: The quote "All morning they watched for the plane which they thought would be looking for them. They cursed war in general and PTs in particular. At about ten o'clock the hulk heaved a moist sigh and turned turtle." is from the novel "A Bell for Adano" by John Hersey. The novel was published in 1944 and is set during World War II in a small Italian town called Adano. The story follows Major Victor Joppolo, an American officer assigned to administer the town after its liberation from the Fascist forces.

In the quoted passage, the characters are anxiously waiting for a plane to rescue them. The use of the word "they" implies a sense of collective anxiety and desperation. The idea of watching for the plane reflects the characters' hope for salvation and their reliance on external help. However, the frustration and resentment expressed through the cursing of war and PTs (presumably referring to Patrol Torpedo boats used in the war) suggest a feeling of helplessness and disillusionment with the circumstances they find themselves in.

The mention of the hulk heaving a moist sigh and turning turtle creates a vivid and metaphorical image. The word "hulk" typically refers to a large, unwieldy and possibly abandoned vessel, and the act of turning turtle suggests a sudden, catastrophic overturning or capsizing. This metaphorical language conveys a sense of impending disaster and the fragility of the characters' situation.

John Hersey was known for his vivid and evocative writing style, as well as his ability to capture the human experience within the context of historical events. "A Bell for Adano" is celebrated for its portrayal of the complexities of war and its impact on individuals and communities. By focusing on the day-to-day struggles and emotions of the characters, Hersey brings a human dimension to the larger historical narrative of World War II.

The passage reflects the broader themes of the novel, including the fragility of life, the search for hope and salvation in the midst of chaos, and the impact of war on the human psyche. The characters' longing for rescue and their disillusionment with the realities of war speak to the universal experiences of fear, desperation, and the yearning for peace and safety.

In conclusion, the quoted passage from "A Bell for Adano" by John Hersey captures the emotional and psychological turmoil of individuals caught in the midst of war. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Hersey conveys the characters' sense of urgency, frustration, and vulnerability. The novel as a whole offers a poignant exploration of the human experience during wartime, making it a powerful and enduring work of literature.