Meaning: The quote you have provided is from the book "Hiroshima" by John Hersey, which was first published in 1946. 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 refers to the immediate impact of the atomic bomb on the human body and the lack of awareness among doctors about the nature of the sickness it caused.

In this quote, Hersey describes the first stage of the sickness that befell the survivors of the atomic bombing. He explains that this stage occurred before the doctors even realized that they were dealing with a new illness. This emphasizes the unprecedented and catastrophic nature of the atomic bomb's impact. The direct reaction to the bombardment of the body by neutrons, beta particles, and gamma rays at the moment of the explosion caused immediate and devastating effects on the human body.

The use of the term "new sickness" suggests that the doctors and medical professionals in Hiroshima were initially unprepared for the specific symptoms and consequences of exposure to nuclear radiation. This lack of understanding further adds to the horror and chaos that ensued in the aftermath of the bombing. The quote highlights the sudden and overwhelming nature of the physical impact, as well as the confusion and urgency that surrounded the medical response to the unprecedented situation.

John Hersey's "Hiroshima" is a powerful and haunting work that conveys the human suffering and resilience in the face of unimaginable destruction. The quote you have provided captures the immediate aftermath of the bombing and the profound medical and humanitarian challenges it posed. It serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare and the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and preparedness in the face of such catastrophic events.

The book "Hiroshima" is a seminal work of non-fiction that brought the reality of the atomic bombing and its aftermath to a global audience. It remains a vital historical document and a poignant testament to the experiences of those who lived through the horrors of nuclear warfare. By focusing on the human stories and the personal accounts of survivors, Hersey's work humanizes the tragedy and underscores the moral and ethical implications of nuclear weapons.

In conclusion, the quote from John Hersey's "Hiroshima" encapsulates the immediate and devastating impact of the atomic bomb on the human body and the lack of understanding among medical professionals at the time. It serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for awareness and preparedness in the face of such catastrophic events. The book itself is a powerful and enduring testament to the human cost of nuclear warfare and the resilience of those who survived it.