Civilian Fear and Relief

The story measures international crisis through families, urban precautions and a public eager for peace but unable to know what the future holds.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Gas Mask Fittings

The Children Prepare A Domestic Errand Pamela takes the children to be fitted for gas masks and brings one to the anniversary lunch. Fear as a Household Object Legat’s concern for his children makes war feel immediate and intimate.

Trenches in the Park

London Changes Shape Civil Defence Work Workers dig slit trenches in Green Park while the city waits for news. Visible Anxiety The ordinary urban landscape begins to resemble a battlefield before war has even been declared.

Balloons Rise

A Familiar Phrase Returns The Balloon’s Ascent Legat sees barrage balloons rising and hears a stranger repeat a phrase linked to his father’s departure for war. Private Memory The public emergency opens an old personal wound that his professional composure cannot erase.

London Waits

Crowds Gather A Political Audience People gather outside Downing Street and later line the route to Parliament. Relief and Dependence Their silence and cheers show how completely ordinary people depend on decisions made elsewhere.

Fireworks After Munich

Celebration in the Streets Relief Released Fireworks and crowds mark the news that immediate war has been avoided. A Private Counterpoint Legat shares the relief but tells Pamela he still expects war, separating the public celebration from his own forecast.

27 September 1938, lunchtime

27 September 1938, early afternoon

27 September 1938, late afternoon

28 September 1938, afternoon

30 September 1938, evening