LET THE RECORD SPEAK

by Dorothy Thompson ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 25, 1939

Although this is late in coming through, the importance of Dorothy Thompson's name and the power of this book makes it more than an essential item. The major part of the book consists of columns written for the New York Herald Tribune, commenting on events of international importance during the period from March 11, 1936 to May 23, 1939. The columns are so well chosen (averaging one a week) that a strong impression of continuity is retained. Although there can be some question as to her interpretations in Spain, history has almost entirely justified her analyses. Five points are stressed throughout. (1) The revolutionary character of Naziism; the complete break with the past in national economy, motivated by a desire for self-sufficiency in war time: the destruction of traditional social patterns, chiefly in the family circle; the abolition of trade unions, etc.: the attack on all religions whenever they conflict with party ideas and needs. (2) The international character of Naziism, the dissemination of the credo to other nations. (3) The futility of hoping to appease by concessions, which France and Britain have tried to do repeatedly, and are attempting now in the case of Poland. (4) The anti-social and anti-human nature of Nazi ideology, negation of scientific truth, rejection of religion. (5) Nazi opposition to United States neutrality laws. In addition to the column material, there are three long passages in introduction, conclusion, etc., which are masterful and effective. Although occasionally her style is slipshod, due no doubt to meeting a press line, most of the writing is vigorous and to the point, dramatizing the virtues of democracy in contradistinction to the Fascist regime, emphasizing the need for vision and understanding. And she has already proved her points, unfortunately.

Pub Date: Aug. 25, 1939

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 1939

Categories: NONFICTION