The Dark Forest · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The narrator provides brief editorial notes on Trenchard's diary, clarifying that certain descriptions (like the sound of a bursting shell) are Trenchard's own and not necessarily accurate, and noting that many statements in the chapter rel
What happens
The narrator provides brief editorial notes on Trenchard's diary, clarifying that certain descriptions (like the sound of a bursting shell) are Trenchard's own and not necessarily accurate, and noting that many statements in the chapter rely solely on Trenchard's authority.
Characters to notice
- Unknown Narrator
Provides editorial commentary on Trenchard's diary.
- John Trenchard
His diary is the source of the account, and his descriptions are noted as possibly subjective.
Key passages
“It must be remembered that this account is Trenchard’s—taken from his diary.”
The narrative is based on Trenchard's personal diary entries.
Establishes the source and potential bias of the account.
“In my own experience I have never known the bursting of shell to sound in the least like a stone in water. But he insists on the accuracy of this.”
The narrator disagrees with Trenchard's description of a shell burst but acknowledges Trenchard's insistence on its accuracy.
Highlights a specific point of contention between the narrator and Trenchard's account.