“The Sniper” is a short story written by Liam O’Flaherty. Set during the Irish Civil War, the story follows a Republican sniper in Dublin as he engages in a deadly battle with an enemy sniper from the opposing Free State forces. The story explores themes of war, violence, and the psychological toll of conflict.
The story begins before dawn in Dublin, with the Republican sniper positioned on a rooftop. Despite knowing the risks, he lights a cigarette, which alerts the enemy sniper across the street. The enemy sniper takes a shot at him, narrowly missing. As the battle unfolds, an armored car passes by, and an old woman informs the occupants about the Republican sniper’s location. In response, the Republican sniper shoots and kills both the man in the armored car and the woman.
Feeling a surge of pride and joy, the Republican sniper stands up on the rooftop, exposing himself to the enemy sniper. He successfully shoots and kills the enemy sniper with his revolver. However, as the adrenaline of battle subsides, the Republican sniper is overcome with remorse and the realization of the horrors of war. He experiences a moment of introspection and reflection on the nature of violence and its consequences.
The story ends with a twist when the Republican sniper discovers that the enemy sniper he killed is his own brother, who had been fighting on the opposing side. This revelation adds another layer of tragedy and highlights the senselessness of war.
“The Sniper” explores the dehumanizing effects of war and the psychological toll it takes on individuals. It delves into the themes of violence, remorse, and the complexities of loyalty and family ties in times of conflict.
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