Resist: A Story of D-Day

In this section, the theme of Hope and Persistence in the Face of Crisis is central to Samira’s experience. She must remain hopeful despite overwhelming odds. She reflects on the state of her life and the demands placed on her, accepting that “this [is] her life now, and she [must] be brave” (20). She must come to terms with the harsh reality of war, where bravery is no longer optional but necessary for survival. Samira learned bravery from her mother, who demonstrates immense courage in their struggle for survival. After her husband was killed by the Nazis, Samira’s mother left for Normandy to raise her daughter alone. Despite the dangers, she houses Allied soldiers, risking her life to aid the resistance and protect her daughter. Both Samira and her mother embody the theme of Resilience and Resistance Against Oppression.

In addition, The Impact of War on Civilians emerges as another theme, which these chapters explore through sensory imagery, especially in the descriptions of destruction. Samira notes the “black smoke and the smell of burning burlap filling her nose” (19), which paints a dark picture of the physical devastation around her. This sensory imagery, along with the constant sounds of destruction, communicates the environmental effects of war and emphasizes the harsh nature of conflict. The soldiers’ movements likewise become symbolic of war. As Samira leads the Allied soldiers to the Seulles Bridge, she describes their actions: “They moved as one, skulking silently through the woods like a pack of wolves stalking their prey. Never a misstep. Never a moment’s hesitation” (27). The simile comparing the soldiers to wolves emphasizes the disciplined, predatory nature of war.

This section takes place during the Battle of Seulles Bridge, in which paratroopers and decoy “Ruperts” play a significant role in the military strategy. These parachutes, intended to confuse the enemy, also confuse Samira. Samira is aware that the Allies are preparing to invade, and the tension surrounding this event is high. The strategic importance of the Seulles Bridge and the use of paratroopers during the invasion of Normandy showcase the history of the war. The impending invasion increases the urgency in Samira’s actions.

Samira increasingly deals with the emotional and physical exhaustion of war. She demonstrates resourcefulness, such as when she attempts to use a dummy’s uniform to outsmart the enemy; however, the uniform explodes, casting doubt on whether she and the Allied forces will succeed: “If the Allied paratroopers weren’t real—if this was all a trick—did that mean the Allies weren’t really invading France tonight? Or that they were invading somewhere else?” (16-17). Despite this failure, Samira refuses to stop, again showing resilience. She understands that giving up would mean defeat. This determination to continue, even when she feels exhausted and overwhelmed, emphasizes the resilience required to survive in war. Her internal and external conflicts and struggles emphasize the toll war takes on people forced into extreme circumstances.

Gratz uses punctuation, particularly exclamation marks, to heighten the emotional intensity. The exclamation marks convey a sense of shock or urgency, reinforcing Samira’s emotional responses to the chaotic events unfolding around her. These punctuation choices also help heighten the emotional experience of the narrative, amplifying the sense of fear, confusion, and anticipation. Additionally, Gratz uses Samira’s internal questioning to provoke critical thought: “What was the point of crash-landing a plane full of Ruperts?” (23).