# X: Independent Action explained — Memoirs of an Infantry Officer

> Chapter companion for Memoirs of an Infantry Officer by Siegfried Sassoon.

## What happens

Sherston, on sick leave in Butley, resolves to make a public protest against the war. He drafts a statement of defiance, sends it to his Colonel and Dottrell, and endures a tense tea with Captain Huxtable. Later, in London, he meets Markington, who reveals the war's acquisitive aims, and Sherston decides to act, seeking Markington's advice and committing to his protest.

## Themes in this chapter

### Anti-War Protest and Conscience

Sherston's decision to make a public statement against the war reflects his moral objection and willingness to face consequences.

### Disillusionment with Authority

Sherston's belief that the war is being deliberately prolonged by those in power shows his loss of trust in military and political leaders.

### Propaganda and Suppression of Truth

Markington's revelation about the real war aims contrasts with the public narrative, highlighting the suppression of truth.

### Psychological Strain and Survival

Sherston's mental turmoil and the 'psychological thunderstorm' he experiences illustrate the strain of his moral conflict.

## Character check-ins

### Aunt Evelyn

Sherston's aunt, who invites Captain Huxtable to tea and remains unaware of his nephew's plans.

### Captain Huxtable

A cheerful veteran of the Flintshire Fusiliers, whose enthusiasm for the regiment contrasts with Sherston's disillusionment.

### Dottrell

Sherston sends him a copy of his protest statement, hoping for understanding from the First Battalion.

### Durley

Mentioned as someone Sherston considers sending his statement to, expecting sympathy.

### David Cromlech

In a convalescent hospital, Sherston thinks of him but decides not to involve him.

### Mr. Markington

Editor of the Unconservative Weekly, whose revelations about war aims inspire Sherston's protest.

## Key lines

> I am making this statement as an act of wilful defiance of military authority, because I believe that the War is being deliberately prolonged by those who have the power to end it.

I am deliberately disobeying military orders because I believe the war is being unnecessarily extended by those who could stop it.

_Sherston's formal protest statement, declaring his defiance._

> It certainly sounds a bit pompous, I thought, and God only knows what the Colonel will think of it.

I thought the statement sounded rather self-important, and I wondered what the Colonel would make of it.

_Sherston's self-consciousness about his protest's wording._

> I had overstayed my leave several days and was waiting until I heard from the Depot.

I had been on leave longer than allowed and was waiting for instructions from the Depot.

_Sherston's awareness of his breach of military protocol._

> It was a case of direct inspiration; I had, so to speak, received the call, and the editor of the Unconservative Weekly seemed the most likely man to put me on the shortest road to martyrdom.

I felt a sudden calling, and Markington seemed the best person to help me achieve martyrdom quickly.

_Sherston's dramatic view of his mission._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_an_infantry_officer_se/chapters/x-independent-action
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_an_infantry_officer_se/chapters