Command

by William McFee

"Command" by William McFee is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores the life and perspectives of Mr. Reginald Spokesly, a second officer in the Merchant Service, as he navigates through his professional and personal aspirations during a tumultuous time. The story delves into themes of ambition, societal expectations, and the interpersonal dynamics aboard a ship. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the protagonist Reginald Spokesly, who is depicted as a self-important officer struggling with his identity and ambitions in the shadow of the war. He reflects on his superficial relationships and romantic notions, particularly towards Ada Rivers, a woman he admires but whose depth he fails to fully appreciate. Through Spokesly’s interactions with other crew members and his thoughts on leadership and self-worth, we begin to sense his internal conflicts and desires for recognition and authority, as well as the critiques of class dynamics and gender roles in early 20th-century England. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the impact of war on personal ambitions and relationships.