E. P. F. Lynch (1897–1980)

Oh my God !

The first thing to say is that this war diary pulls no punches. It's language will be offensive to a modern day audience so be warned.
The violence is graphic and frequent.
It is the memoir of an ordinary Digger living and fighting through extraordinary times.

What a hero, as they all were.

The content is best summed up by a tiny paragraph in which a soldier meets a mate he knew before the war as they pass each other on their way to/from the front line. The one coming back has his show more arms folded and refuses to shake the hand of his former friend. When questioned why he apologises and explains that if he did, his intestines would fall out...
His friend looks down and sees that a bullet has cut the injured man's stomach open.
When asked why he was walking back on his own instead of being helped the soldier explains, 'Because the stretcher bearers need to attend to the more seriously wounded!'

A doomed generation of heroes who should NEVER be forgotten. Thank you for your sacrifice. RIP. show less

Shines the best when being a combat memoir. Vivid and stark.

Somme Mud is an excellent book. It has been written from first hand accounts woven together by an eyewitness to the First World War and the horrors of trench warfare. The language is simple, but elegant. The description is vivid, bringing the depth of emotion that is absolutely essential to a work such as this. I thoroughly recommend this book to all and sundry.

Somme Mud is truly an insightful work based on the experiences of Edward Lynch. Mr. L. volunteer for the Australian war effort in 1916. At the age of 18 he sailed for France as an infantryman. His experiences are presented in a candid, straightforward manner and humonous at times. He and his mates apparently lived up to the reputation of 'Aussies' with their laid-back attitude toward military discipline, yet committed and courageous in battle.

His memoirs bring the realities of the horrors show more of trench warfare to life. He covers not only the terror, but also the boredom, the skirting of rules to find basic comforts for him and his comrades, and life behind the lines. Thankfully a glossary of military terms and 'digger' slang is provided. Otherwise the book could become confusing at times.

I absolutely recommend this book for anyone interested in the Western Front. It is the English version of All's Quiet on the Western Front'. The amazing piece of his story to me were the risks these men willingly accepted, sometimes on a daily basis, to achieve their objectives. Not to give the book away, but it must be mentioned how powerful the concept of mates (pals, buddies), and mateship was to their daily survival, both in action and behind the lines during rest periods. Enought said. Read the book, it is well worth your time and thoughts. show less