Past Event

James Jones: The Evolution of a Soldier and a Writer

A Road Scholar Program by Ray Elliott

This presentation focuses on the life and literary works of Illinois author James Jones (1921-1977). The premise is that Jones himself experienced a concept he coined and wrote about in major WWII literature called “the evolution of a soldier.” It is a process by which those in the U.S. Armed Forces are trained to fight the country’s wars and conflicts and how that process affects individuals – especially when they return to civilian life. This presentation sheds light on Jones’ well-known novels, From Here to Eternity , The Thin Red Line , and Some Came Running , as well as the man himself.

For more information, please contact Molly Scanlan, 618.632.3783.