Erich Maria Remarque

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Erich Maria Remarque

Erich Maria Remarque (22 June 1898 – 25 September 1970) was a German novelist. He is best known for his landmark novel All Quiet on the Western Front, which is considered one of the greatest war novels of all time. His works primarily deal with the horrors of war and the struggles of soldiers returning to civilian life.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Erich Maria Remarque was born as Erich Paul Remark in Osnabrück, Germany. He was the son of Peter Franz Remark, a bookbinder, and Anna Maria. Remarque began writing at an early age and had a passion for literature and music.

Military Service[edit | edit source]

During World War I, Remarque was conscripted into the German Army at the age of 18. He served on the Western Front and was wounded several times. His experiences during the war profoundly influenced his writing.

Literary Career[edit | edit source]

Remarque's first novel, Die Traumbude (The Dream Room), was published in 1920, but it was his 1928 novel All Quiet on the Western Front (Im Westen nichts Neues) that brought him international fame. The novel provides a harrowing account of the physical and mental stress faced by soldiers during the war and the detachment from civilian life felt by many upon returning home.

Following the success of All Quiet on the Western Front, Remarque wrote several other novels, including The Road Back (Der Weg zurück), Three Comrades (Drei Kameraden), and Arch of Triumph (Arc de Triomphe). His works often explored themes of loss, exile, and the impact of war on individuals and society.

Exile and Later Life[edit | edit source]

With the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany, Remarque's works were condemned and banned. In 1933, he left Germany and eventually settled in Switzerland. Later, he moved to the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1947. Remarque continued to write and publish novels, including The Black Obelisk (Der schwarze Obelisk) and The Night in Lisbon (Die Nacht von Lissabon).

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Remarque was married twice, first to actress Ilse Jutta Zambona and later to actress Paulette Goddard. He had no children. Remarque was known for his friendships with other literary figures and his involvement in the cultural scene of his time.

Death[edit | edit source]

Erich Maria Remarque died on 25 September 1970 in Locarno, Switzerland. He is buried in the Ronco Cemetery in Ronco, Ticino, Switzerland.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Remarque's works have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be read worldwide. His portrayal of the futility and devastation of war has left a lasting impact on literature and has influenced many subsequent writers and filmmakers.