The Flag

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25188

Title

The Flag

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in a rural Pennsylvania village during World War I, this novel follows Penfield Butler, a young man torn between loyalty to his grandfather's farm and his desire for independence. When America enters the war, Pen travels to France to serve alongside his Civil War veteran grandfather, finding redemption and family reconciliation amidst the conflict.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in the quiet village of Chestnut Hill, Homer Greene's *The Flag* explores themes of duty, generational change, and the healing power of shared values through the story of fourteen-year-old Penfield Butler. Pen lives with his grandfather, Civil War veteran Colonel Richard Butler, and his aunt after his father's death. Although raised in a traditional farming environment, Pen feels stifled and secretly seeks work elsewhere. His opportunity arises when Robert Starbird offers him a job at a woolen mill in Lowbridge. Despite the Colonel's initial reluctance and the deep sorrow it causes him, Pen leaves for the city, estranging himself from his grandfather. Years later, while Pen works in the mill, news breaks that the United States has declared war on Germany. The Colonel, now an old man, is devastated by the separation but driven by patriotism and love for his grandson to travel to France. He arrives at a hospital near Rouen where Pen is recovering from war wounds. The atmosphere shifts from personal sorrow to national pride as the U.S. officially joins the Allied forces. The Colonel, revered by the wounded soldiers, delivers a stirring speech to the American flag displayed in the ward, expressing gratitude for his country's entry into the war to make the world safe for democracy. The narrative culminates in a profound emotional reunion. Having witnessed the horrors of war and the resilience of the French people, the Colonel returns to his grandson's bedside. He forgives the estrangement and welcomes Pen's mother back to the family home at Bannerhall. The novel concludes with the Colonel and Pen united in their patriotism, finding peace and a renewed sense of family after the trials of war and separation. The story illustrates how shared national values can bridge personal divides and restore familial bonds.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Fiction