The epaulette Memories of an officer

The Epaulette: Memories of an Officer (L'épaullette: Souvenirs d'un officier) by Georges Darien is a deeply critical and semi-autobiographical novel that reflects the author's own experiences within the French military. Published in 1901 the novel provides a sharp examination of military life authority and the societal roles that soldiers are forced into.The story centers around an unnamed officer who recalls his time in the army beginning with the initial excitement and romanticized ideals of military service only to be disillusioned by the brutal reality of military life. The epaulette a symbol of rank and authority is both literal and metaphorical throughout the narrative representing the officer's status and the oppressive structures within the army.