All the Light We Cannot See

All the Light We Cannot See

by

Anthony Doerr

Teachers and parents! Our Teacher Edition on All the Light makes teaching easy.

All the Light We Cannot See: 7. Telegram Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
A new garrison commander has been appointed in coastal France. This man is a “true German,” who commands the respect of his peers. He sends many telegrams to Berlin. In one, he explains that he suspects “terrorist broadcasts” somewhere nearby, possibly in Saint-Malo.
This new commander seems like the paragon of Nazi values—he’s stern, emotionless, and ruthless—but perhaps he, like Werner, is just as uncertain about the morality of his behavior. In any event, we can now see why Werner comes to arrive in Saint-Malo, thus bringing the plot full circle.
Themes
World War II, the Nazis, and the French Resistance Theme Icon
Interconnectedness and Separation Theme Icon
Fate, Duty, and Free Will Theme Icon