Zoe Williams encapsulates the periodic sense of dread successive generations have felt when world events increase the threat of nuclear war and describes some of the seminal moments in our increasing awareness of the dangers (‘By 10, I knew all about the impact of a nuclear blast’, 16 March).
One such was Peter Watkins’ documentary-style film, The War Game, which was pulled by a nervous BBC from its intended screening in 1965 for 20 years, but gained attention via the National Film Theatre and film clubs and a best documentary Academy Award in 1967. It, along with the 1984 TV drama Threads, mentioned by Williams, should be compulsory viewing for politicians who continue to claim that our possession of weapons of mass destruction somehow makes us safer. The current appalling situation should galvanise efforts to secure a total and verifiable worldwide ban.
Dr Anthony Isaacs
London
• The historical references to the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament in Zoe Williams’ piece may lead readers to believe that it is something from the past. In fact, CND is still vigorously campaigning against nuclear weapons, as it has since its beginnings in the late 50s. There is a thriving membership, with groups across the country campaigning locally and nationally for nuclear disarmament.
CND has a website and is active on social media – and if your algorithms aren’t showing you that, maybe seek us out and join us.
Annie Tunnicliffe
CND member, London
• It was interesting to read Zoe Williams’ recollections of growing up in the 1980s in the shadow of the bomb. Growing up in the 1960s meant much the same. CND, Aldermaston and the best history teacher ever, Miss M Black at Milham Ford grammar school, were the forces that helped me as a teenager form my understanding of the time I was living in, plus the Manchester Guardian, of course. I owe them thanks for explaining the confusions of the world and shaping my values ever since.
Bevelie Shember
Rugby
• Zoe Williams might be interested in the singer-songwriter Tom Paxton’s artistic response to the possibility of nuclear war. After hearing about the US Postal Service’s contingency plan for delivering mail after a nuclear holocaust, he wrote the satirical song The Mail Will Go Through, which is well worth a listen.
Roger Wortley
Sunderland
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