That would be fascinating, Eldred. Anything that surprised you?

Yes, Kris. The language is much more authentic because there is no concern about grammar or word choices meant to please another. Relationship discussions can be as simple or complex as the writer sees them. Some concern themselves with the latest "thing." Others don't. Of course, most have been edited by a surviving loved one, so there's that to consider. (Makes me wonder what was left out.)

Agree. Have been to the WWI Museum in Kansas City. It's humbling.

Michelle, Yes! I absolutely agree. Diaries are more one-sided in that they don't show the division between sexes, but they usually discuss the mundane and the emotional. But the letters...Man. They are heartbreaking. If you get a chance, visit the World War I museum (a different war, but the same in many ways). Located in Kansas City, I've spent hours there, just reading the letters.

Glad you enjoyed it.

Shakespeare was pretty good about spicing up a story. He even made up words when he couldn't find one to fit the narrative!

The book I have, From Manassas to Appomattox, is the 1896 memoir of Confederate General James Longstreet. It covers the battles from his point of view. Quite interesting, as much of it was complied from official communications.

HI Lynette,
I wonder if you get more vocabulary and phrasing that was common in that era as well. In a diary, a person wouldn't necessarily worry about proper English and such, reading those accounts would most likely make your story more authentic sounding.