The book had been difficult to publish as MacLennan had previously written regarding international themes, while Barometer Rising contained a decidedly nationalist overtone.

Once published, the novel was wildly successful, and permitted MacLennan to leave his full-time job at Lower Canada College.

[2] She told him that "Nobody's going to understand Canada until she evolves a literature of her own, and you're the fellow to start bringing Canadian novels up to date.

He drew upon his own experiences of the Halifax Explosion, having survived it as ten-year-old boy,[1] but also on Homer's Odyssey for narrative direction.

Neil seeks Alec MacKenzie, the only other survivor of their unit who can confirm that Colonel Wain had given an contradictory order, which was impossible to fulfill.

When the order ended in disaster, Colonel Wain attempted to blame Neil in hopes of retaining his position in the military.

Once the two men locate Penny, who had been wounded in the eye, Angus sets up a makeshift hospital at the Wains' house.

Meanwhile, Neil enters the city to procure supplies and assist with rescue efforts, no longer concerned who will recognize him.