ABSTRACT
Pompey Elliott, Australia’s most famous fighting general, was an indomitable commander, exceptional in intellect, genuineness and resolve. A fierce disciplinarian with an explosive temper, he was exuberant, wholehearted and utterly dedicated. Emotionally volatile as well, he created the most riveting Australian personal narrative of the war. What he wrote and said was exceptionally frank and forthright, controversial and emotional.
Pompey wrote rapidly and fluently with fertile imagery, a flair for simile and an engaging turn of phrase. He was remarkably outspoken – especially in controversy, and he was often in controversy. His correspondence with his wife was fervent, tender and complied with their no-secrets pact. And his letters to his young children were extraordinary. Pompey managed to turn even the Western Front into a bedtime story.
