This collection of letters chronicles Arthur Powell's experiences as a soldier during the First World War, from February 1916, during training with the Manchester Regiment prior to his embarkation for the Western Front, until April 1919, when he was part of the demobilisation process in Salonika.
Powell wrote home to his parents very regularly, every three or four days, except when he was on the march or during periods of 'fatigue' duty which usually meant Lewis Gun training, trench building or drill practice. Otherwise the communication between son and home was frequent and unbroken. Powell describes military life in detail, within the limitations imposed by military censorship. Food was of particular concern to him; the soldier's fare was rudimentary and not always plentiful, and he looked forward to packages and letters from his parents, bringing messages of love, news and home comforts. The letters demonstrate an affectionate, loving bond between son and parents.