Ravel was declared unfit to serve in World War I, but became a driver with the transport corps. He fell ill with dysentery and was sent back to Paris. Shortly afterwards his mother died, which was a shattering blow to the composer. These two events had a traumatic effect on his personality. Ravel became an intensely private man who never formed close relationships with anyone else.
After the death of his mother, Ravel's emotional life seemed to become increasingly centred...