Vol 4, 1917

This volume is a typed transcript of Allen's original diary, which he typed himself in 1933. This volume is unique in that it is the only volume in the collection that does not record a religious visit, and because it is the only volume that Allen writes in the form of letters to himself.

This volume was written while Allen was living in San Jose California, and includes fourteen "letters" or entries, which span from April to December of 1917. Each... entry focuses on the early days of America's involvement in WWI, particularly the propaganda that Allen observes, as well as the rising displays of patriotism and nationalism. Many entries focus on the representation of the war in the newspapers and other forms of propaganda. Allen also discusses his disagreement with war in general, and his frustration with the encouragement of support for WWI in American government and popular culture.