Das Boot

Their targets now travel in convoys, fiercely guarded by Royal Navy destroyers, and when contact is finally made the hunters rapidly become the hunted. As the U-boat is forced to hide beneath the surface of the sea a cat-and-mouse game begins, where the increasing claustrophobia of the submarine becomes an enemy just as frightening as the depth charges that explode around it. Of the 40,000 men who served on German submarines, 30,000 never returned. Written by a survivor of the U-boat fleet, Das Boot is a psychological drama merciless in its intensity, and a classic novel of World War II.

But there really ought to be a film of all this: closeups of pure shit. Horizon bald as a baby’s bottom, a couple of clouds – and that’s it. Then they could film the inside of the boat: moldy bread, filthy necks, rotten lemons, torn shirts, sweaty blankets, and, as a grand finale, all of us looking utterly pissed-off.

Das Boot by Lothar-Günther Buchheim is a gripping and harrowing novel that offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of German submarine warfare during World War II. Based on the author’s personal experiences as a war correspondent, this book takes readers on a visceral and intense journey into the dark depths of the U-boat fleet.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to create a palpable sense of tension and claustrophobia. Buchheim vividly describes the cramped and suffocating conditions inside the U-boat, where the crew must navigate the terrifying reality of depth charges and torpedo attacks. The author skillfully captures the psychological toll that this relentless and unforgiving environment takes on the crew, as they struggle to maintain their sanity and camaraderie.

Another notable aspect of “Das Boot” is its attention to detail and historical accuracy. Buchheim’s meticulous research shines through in his descriptions of both the technical workings of the U-boat and the gritty day-to-day lives of its crew members. From the foul stench of moldy bread to the constant presence of sweat and filth, the book pulls no punches in its portrayal of the harsh realities of war.

Moreover, the characters in Das Boot are multi-dimensional and relatable, each with their own fears, hopes, and flaws. Buchheim explores the moral dilemmas faced by the crew members as they grapple with their duty to their country and the devastating consequences of their actions. This adds a layer of complexity and depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a mere war story.

However, at times the pacing of the book can be slow, particularly during the sections that focus on the day-to-day routines of the crew. While this does serve to immerse the reader in the monotony and tedium of submarine life, it may test the patience of some readers.

In conclusion, Das Boot is a powerful and evocative novel that offers a haunting portrayal of the human experience in the midst of war. Buchheim’s vivid writing, meticulous research, and well-rounded characters make this a compelling read for anyone interested in historical fiction or World War II literature.