"My father, who had previously been a civil engineer, died in the great influenza epidemic of 1918"

This quote speaks with the catastrophe of the great influenza epidemic of 1918. It was a disastrous event that took the lives of countless individuals worldwide. For James Rainwater, it was particularly heartbreaking as it took the life of his father. His dad had been a civil engineer, a profession that requires a good deal of ability and commitment. It is likely that his dad provided pride and admiration for James, and his death was a great loss. The quote also speaks with the power of the influenza epidemic, as it had the ability to take the life of an apparently healthy and strong male. It acts as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have actually with our loved ones.