What I enjoyed about reading "How to Tell a True War Story" was it gave a perspective that is often not portrayed in media, specifically literature, that I've seen, anyway. For example, it is rare to see the soldier's perspective when a friend or loved one dies, especially what goes on when they have to contact the family member. What stood out to me the most for that was when Kiley had to write the sister of Curt Lemon. If this were a "normal" story, then it would portray the sister receiving and reacting to the letter. And because this happens many times, I was able to understand why she did not write back. However, I appreciated the difference and actually understanding the emotion that Kiley felt when he waited and waited and never received a response.
I believe that writing this, the author tried to portray what goes on in war is not one dimensional. The interactions and relationships that are formed while serving are complex and more complicated than what one might be outside of combat. It seems that what comes out of these relationships is a lot more sacred because any second, that friend could be gone. It's very fragile and very sacred.
Interesting point of view. When I read the story I was thinking more in terms of the soldiers' lives, but I like how you showed that O'Brien was also able to include family and relationships as well.
ReplyDeleteO'Brien certainly seems to want the reader to get inside of his head rather than simply tell a story. I agree that his approach is multi-dimensional and I find this gives his stories an almost dream-like effect.
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