Better is the End balances heavy political commentary with explorations of Will’s strained relationships—with his son, wife, granddaughter, and a Japanese girl he abandoned—stressing how war shapes identity. Canfield examines the revisionist view of World War II, a heavy lift but one that he tackles ambitiously, using Will as a lens to critique America's obsession with militarism, neglect of the psychological toll of war, the long-held narrative of America as a global liberator, and media manipulation—a global concern still eerily relevant today. Will's haunting reflection—"Did my darkness come from all the sin that I inflicted on the world? Or did it come from all the sin that I had witnessed in the world?"—anchors central themes of war’s lasting trauma and its perpetuating cycle of violence.
While the crisp and provocative dialogue occasionally veers into didacticism—characters serving as philosophical mouthpieces rather than well-rounded individuals—Canfield's prowess connects history with modern dilemmas by avoiding binary narratives for a nuanced understanding of the ethical foundations of military might. The message is clear: redemption is hard-won but necessary. This thoughtful blend of historical exposition and personal reflection scrutinizes the timeless search for a moral compass in a world often bereft of one.
Takeaway: A retired Marine’s account of war, guilt, and personal redemption.
Comparable Titles: Sarah Waters’s The Night Watch, Pat Barker’s Regeneration.
Production grades
Cover: B-
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: B
5 out of 5 stars. "Better Is the End" by Curt A. Canfield presents a profound exploration of the political, economic, and societal transformations in the United States from its founding to the present. The narrative follows Will Barnes, a former Marine non-commissioned officer who has experienced the tumult of post-war trauma and political disillusionment. Through Will's journey, the novel scrutinizes America's deviation from the principles of its Founding Fathers and the resulting issues of income inequality, crime, and overreliance on defense spending.
Will’s life story reflects a broader critique of American foreign and domestic policies, particularly focusing on the consequences of World War II. He grapples with the realization that the war could have been avoided and questions the justifications behind America's global interventions. His exploration into these issues leads him to investigate his own past, including reconciling with estranged family members and confronting the contradictions in historical narratives.
The book delves into historical misconceptions, particularly the portrayal of Germans in World War II, and critiques the media’s role in shaping public perception. Will’s interactions with individuals from his past, including his former wife, a German WWII veteran, and a Japanese girl he once knew, further highlight the complexities of personal and political histories.
Through these relationships and his writing, Will seeks to address his past mistakes, make amends, and advocate for a more introspective and less interventionist approach to global and domestic issues. The narrative underscores a message of tolerance, self-reflection, and the need for a more balanced understanding of history and international relations.
The book is a profound exploration of the moral and societal contradictions in American history. The novel's narrative, woven through the experiences of Will Barnes, offers a compelling critique of how America's actions have deviated from its foundational ideals. His interactions with Johann and his family further underscore the complexity of historical narratives, revealing how media and power brokers shape public perception to serve their own agendas.
The book's detailed portrayal of Will's attempts to reconcile with his past and make amends adds a deeply personal touch to its broader political critique. For example, his efforts to reconnect with his former wife, Alicia, and his estranged son, Hector, demonstrate a sincere attempt to confront and rectify his personal failings. Similarly, his pursuit of Keiko, a Japanese girl he left behind, and his support for her and her family illustrate his commitment to making a positive impact despite his past mistakes.
The book has been professionally edited, and I found nothing to dislike in it. I'd then rate the book 5 out of 5 stars. I like the writing style of the novel because it is so well-written that one is almost convinced it is a true story. The author should be commended for the good plot and for conveying an important message to everyone in the world about greed, power, arrogance, intolerance, and selfish interest.
"Better Is the End" is particularly suitable for readers who are interested in historical fiction with a strong moral and political dimension. Those who appreciate a nuanced examination of historical events and their implications for contemporary society will find this book engaging. Additionally, readers who enjoy stories of personal redemption and complex characters grappling with their pasts will connect deeply with Will’s journey.******
