Spokesman Books

Last week we spotted a BBC News feature on the conscientous objectors held at Richmond Castle during the First World War, and one of the unique ways in which they left their mark on the place: pictures and messages drawn on the walls of their cells. The article elaborates: The graffiti features pencil drawings and inscriptions, including slogans, poetry, and portraits of loved ones. A grant of £365,400 from the Heritage Lottery will be used to protect the work and allow public access. ... Kate Mavor, English Heritage's chief executive, said the graffiti was an "important record of the voices of dissent" during the war. She said it was vital to preserve "these delicate drawings" to ensure the stories were not lost. High levels of moisture and damp meant the layers of lime wash and plaster on the walls were crumbling and flaking off, she added. The full story, including excellent images of some of the graffiti, is accessible at BBC News here: http://...

 Comrades in Conscience An evening commemorating the courage of Britain's First World War conscientious objectors through drama, song, and talks. [Click to enlarge promotional images] Tickets available from Conway Hall's event page at: http://conwayhall.org.uk/event/comrades-in-conscience  

Issue 130 of The Spokesman , 'One Belt, One Road', is now available. Among the books reviewed in this issue are two titles on pacifism and conscientious objection: The World is My Country , by Emily Johns and Gabriel Carlyle, and Refusing to Kill , by Oliver Haslam and PPU Publications Group.  Cranks and Kites Two peace-oriented publishers; two different approaches to presenting the lives of conscientious objectors and opponents of the First World War. The World is My Country calls itself a ‘celebration’, whereas Refusing to Kill is a more sombre appraisal, and pulls no punches. Read together, they prove there is room to remember both the anguish and the triumphs of this extremely diverse group. Refusing to Kill is primarily intended for use by teachers and students, as the layout and language indicate. It outlines the various forms of conscientious objection, such as non-combatant COs, who would drill and train but not serve; those who submitted to alternative l...