A raw view on war in general is presented in Arrowsmith. The story takes a decidedly anti-war stance, even though the main characters are engaged in fighting an alternate universe version of WWI that involves elements such as magic, dragons, vampires, werewolves, and Norse gods. The author uses this fantastical setting to explore the horrors and futility of war. Despite the presence of these extraordinary beings and powers, the reality of war remains the same. The characters experience the pain, loss, and destruction that come with conflict. Through their eyes, we see the true cost of war, regardless of the context. Arrowsmith challenges our perception of war and makes us question its necessity. It forces us to consider the consequences of our actions and the impact they have on others. In this way, the story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and the need to find alternative ways to resolve conflicts.