The Soul of Paris

By William J. Guard

The Soul of Paris is a vibrant example of a new style of American journalism forged during the Great War. William J. Guard modestly re-writes the rules of conflict-reporting in not only describing the events of war, but adding new, intimate dimensions to the genre as he situates these events within the tapestry of his own personal experience of war.

Guard begins his notes whilst staying in Paris during the first two months of war in 1914, not with the intention of publishing, but as a distraction from the events that unfolded. Guard mailed his innocent musings to his close friend and Managing Editor of The Evening Sun of New York, George Smith with the strict instructions to ‘chuck ’em in the waste basket if he couldn’t find any use for them’. Happily, Smith saw more merit in Guard’s writing than he saw himself, and requested Guard continue his correspondence.

The Soul of Paris is wonderfully written with the kind of vibrancy and inspiration that can only come from raw impulse. His chance to become a ‘Real Author’, Guard’s writing shows his increasing passion for the project; his investment in the notes as a war correspondent is palpable and makes for a truly unforgettable read.

William J. Guard (1862-1932) was an Irish-born American journalist.