Away from the front, Paul is able once more to appreciate nature. He basks in its beauty and tranquility and continues his steadfast denial of his own humanity. To think about that would mean death when he returns to the front. He muses on the nature of war and enemies. He reflects on the Russian prisoners: “A word of command has made these silent figures our enemies; a word of command might transform them into our friends.” War here seems futile and absurd. Why does it happen? Paul begins to think the unthinkable: “I am frightened: I dare think this way no more. This way lies the abyss.” To be humane is not healthy, and thoughts about fear and death will lead him to lose his nerve. There is not place for humane thoughts now.
The potato cakes symbolize the love of Paul’s mother, who concerns herself with his deprivations. His decision to save them and share them at the front shows his appreciation for her sacrifice. In the next chapter, both the thoughts about war and the description of a mother’s love are repeated and enlarged.
