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At exactly fifteen minutes past eight in the morning, on…

“At exactly fifteen minutes past eight in the morning, on August 6, 1945, Japanese time, at the moment when the atomic bomb flashed above Hiroshima, Miss Toshiko Sasaki, a clerk in the personnel department of the East Asia Tin Works, had just sat down at her place in the plant office and was…” quote by John Hersey
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“At exactly fifteen minutes past eight in the morning, on August 6, 1945, Japanese time, at the moment when the atomic bomb flashed above Hiroshima, Miss Toshiko Sasaki, a clerk in the personnel department of the East Asia Tin Works, had just sat down at her place in the plant office and was turning her head to speak to the girl at the next desk.”

John Hersey

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A civilian’s ordinary morning is shattered by the sudden arrival of an atomic bomb, illustrating the abrupt intrusion of war into daily life.

In simple terms: War abruptly disrupts everyday life.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the fragility of peace.

Themes

war history humanity memory

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

historical reflective

When to use this quote

  • education
  • peace activism
  • remembrance ceremonies

Key Concepts

trauma historical narrative

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal narrative affect your perception of history?
  • What responsibilities do we have to remember such events?
A Different Perspective

The focus on a single individual may overlook broader impacts.

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