Here's what we know:
* Barrett's Background: Barrett was a Catholic priest who served in the US Army during World War II. He was stationed in Germany and witnessed the devastation left by the war firsthand. These experiences likely influenced his writing.
* Fictional Elements: The story centers around a German-born nun and a black soldier who team up to build a chapel in the desert Southwest. While the setting and the general theme of rebuilding after hardship are inspired by reality, the specific characters and events are entirely fictional.
* Themes of Faith and Forgiveness: The novel explores themes of faith, forgiveness, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. These are themes that resonate deeply with readers, regardless of their personal beliefs.
So, while "Lilies of the Field" isn't a true story, it is a powerful and moving work of fiction that explores themes of faith and hope. It was adapted into a popular film starring Sidney Poitier and Lilia Skala in 1963.