How does “Soldiers Home” tie into the notion of the lost generation?
The theme of alienation, isolation either from society or one’s self is a recurring and necessary theme in much of Hemingway’s work. In examining “Soldier’s Home,” we ask ourselves the following questions. Is Krebs isolated and alienated? He returns home to Oklahoma, but isn’t greeted with the same heroic welcome as the other officers who came back earlier. People treat Krebs more like an outcast than a hero. Keep in mind also the title of this story, “Soldier’s Home.” Isn’t one supposed to feel welcomed into his or her home? What does Krebs tell people about his war experiences? He tells them lies naturally considering nobody is interested in hearing his stories, having already heard enough overly dramatic stories from the other officers. Lying makes Krebs feel lost within himself and in a sense bitter towards the war, there the theme of alienation sets in. Does Krebs practice intense self-discipline? He sleeps late, reads, eats, and sits on his front porch watching the girls walk by.
