Final answer:
The narrative of 'Not So Quiet' by Helen Zenna Smith employs figurative language to critique nationalism and explore the profound psychological impact of war on youth, revealing the dissonance between wartime experiences and pre-war nationalist beliefs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The book 'Not So Quiet' by Helen Zenna Smith critiques nationalism and the lasting psychological effects on the youth by using figurative language to convey the characters' traumatic experiences during the war. Smith employs metaphors, similes, and vivid descriptions to showcase the ghastly realities of warfare, contrasting the glorified image of nationalism and the bitter truth of its consequences. The narrative dissects the notion of patriotic duty, revealing how such ideologies can lead to a desolate psychological landscape for those who survive, highlighting the loss of innocence and the burden of trauma carried by the young soldiers.
The use of figurative language serves as a powerful tool in criticizing the romanticized view of war promoted by nationalist propaganda. This is especially poignant regarding the psychological turmoil experienced, which remains long after the physical battles have ceased. Through her literary techniques, Smith unearths the deep-seated disillusionment and emotional scars of the characters, portraying the challenging journey of reconciling their experiences with the pre-war nationalist ideals they once held.