How does John Hershey explain in his book Hiroshima the ironic fact that an all clear signal sounded just before the bomb was dropped?

Answer 1

In his book "Hiroshima," John Hershey highlights the tragic irony of the all-clear signal that sounded just before the atomic bomb was dropped on the city, indicating that it was safe for residents to return to their homes. This moment underscores the false sense of security that the people of Hiroshima felt, as they believed the danger had passed. Hershey uses this juxtaposition to illustrate the devastating unpredictability of war and the catastrophic consequences of the bombing, emphasizing the abrupt shift from normalcy to devastation. The signal, meant to reassure, instead foreshadowed unimaginable destruction.