Individualism v. Nationalism
During World War II, the Germans were seen as Nazis and as all evil. The book sees the Germans as individuals who have their own distinct views. Some believe the party line and are strict with the inhabitants of Guernsey Island during the operation. Others like Christian Hellman are embarrassed by the leadership of their country. They do not agree with the war and how many people are being treated. They are however soldiers and must do their duty to country. It shows that just because a person is German does not make them followers of the Nazi Party. People have their own individual thoughts and cannot be grouped because of where they are born. Christian is shown as a kind man who treats the inhabitants of Guernsey with kindness and respect. He does not see them as the enemy, but unfortunates caught up in the war through no fault, but where they resided. Elizabeth does not see Christian as a German, but as an individual and she falls in love with the man. His actions also make him a friend of members of the literary society.
Effects of War
The effects of war are seen throughout the novel. Juliet has lost her apartment due to the bombing. The results of the bombing can be seen in the streets and the piles of rubble that still fill the landscape. Juliet finds the sites depressing and is heartbroken that her London was so devastated by bombing. The city is in the process of clearing up and getting back to normal.
Guernsey Island is still dotted with the fortifications that the German forced laborers built on the island. The island vegetation is attempting to overtake the buildings to vanquish them from the landscape. The memories of the inhabitants are not so easily dismissed. The people were half starved during the war and must rebuild their farms and businesses after the occupation. They butchered the animals that were on the island during the war and they had no seeds to plant gardens. They must rebuild their lives after the occupation.
Remy is greatly affected by the war. She was in a labor camp and saw many atrocities. This stays with her after the end of the war. She is haunted by the tragedies and personal lost that she suffered. It takes much strength and support to return to the normalcy of life after war. It is hard for Remy to reintegrate back into the mind set needed to function in post war society.
Love v. Infatuation
Juliet is unsure of what love is. She has not experienced it in her life. She was engaged at the beginning of the war, but broke the engagement when reality set in of what marriage would entail. She was infatuated rather than in love. Love can overlook many faults, but infatuation wears off and faults are not seen as endearing. Juliet’s relationship with Markham Reynolds, Jr. is a case of infatuation. She loves the attention that he bestows on her and is captivated by his personality. He loves showing her off to his friends and introducing her as a writer. Once she goes to Guernsey, Markham’s possessiveness grates on her nerves. She wants someone who will support her in her writing and her life. Dawsey not only loves her, but respects her. Juliet learns what love is and once found does not let it go.
Friendship
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society begins through deceit, but becomes a lifeline for the members. They start off as mere acquaintances, but become friends who enrich each other’s lives. The members show their loyalty by not telling of the pig roast to gain the favor of the German’s. They band together and although some do not want to read, they do it for the group. When Elizabeth is sent to a labor camp, the remaining members of the society become young Kit’s family. They treat her as if she is their own. This sense of comradery and loyalty is what draws Juliet and why she chooses to write the article about the society. Their friendship inspires her and she is thrilled when she is allowed into this special group of friends.
