"All morning they watched for the plane which they thought would be looking for them. They cursed war in general and PTs in particular. At about ten o'clock the hulk heaved a moist sigh and turned turtle"

This quote is from John Hersey's unique, "A Bell for Adano". It is set throughout World War II and follows the story of Major Joppolo, an American officer sent out to the Sicilian town of Adano to help the townspeople. In this quote, the townspeople are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a plane that they believe will be looking for them. They are irritated by the war and the PT boats, which are a type of military vessel. At around 10 o'clock, the hulk, which is a large, old boat, suddenly sinks into the water, symbolizing the end of their hope for the aircraft. This quote conveys the despair and vulnerability of the townspeople in the face of war and the destruction it brings. It also highlights the powerlessness of individuals in the face of a larger, more effective force.