In the September 1917 issue of The Masses, Vol. IX, No. 11, the magazine delves into themes of international conflict, social revolution, and the role of socialism in a rapidly changing world. The publication addresses the atrocities committed during World War I, particularly the massacres in East St. Louis and the Belgian deportations, which serve as stark reminders of the need for peace and justice.
The editorial section discusses Kerensky’s proposal for a just and democratic peace between the Allies and Germany, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in revolutionary thought and the need to adapt to changing circumstances. The magazine also engages with those socialists who have abandoned their party due to the war, arguing for a more liberal approach towards these deserters while defending the magazine’s own stance on war and revolution.
Throughout the issue, C.R.W. Nevinson’s artwork adds a visual narrative to the discussions, providing powerful imagery that underscores the publication’s call for peace, justice, and adaptability in a world marked by conflict and change. The magazine continues to be a significant platform for socialist thought, advocating for a flexible, liberal perspective on revolutionary ideas and international conflicts.