Writ in Barracks

One of Wallace’s first published works, ‘Writ in Barracks’ is a collection of poems written while the author was stationed in South Africa and acting as a reporter. While there is a sense of ‘king and country’ that pervades the work, what sets this book apart from others is the contrast of outward bravado against inner fear. Honest, searing, and occasionally funny, these poems offer an incisive insight into life behind the lines, during what came to be known as the Second Boer War. ‘Writ in Barracks’ is the perfect poetry collection for those interested in colonial history. Born in London, Edgar Wallace (1875 – 1932) was an English writer so prolific that his publisher claimed that he was responsible for a quarter of all books sold in England. Leaving school at the age of 12, Wallace made his first steps into the literary world by selling newspapers on the corner of Fleet Street. He worked as a war correspondent after joining the army at age 21, which honed his writing abilities. This led to the creation of his first book ‘The Four Just Men.’ Wallace is best remembered as the co-creator of ‘King Kong,’ which has been adapted for film 12 times (most notably directed by ‘Lord of the Rings’ director, Peter Jackson, and starring Jack Black and Naomi Watts). However, he leaves behind an extensive body of work, including stories such as ‘The Crimson Circle’ and ‘The Flying Squad’.