(O'Brien, entire book)
Literary Term: Motif
Throughout this entire book, the ideal that war is a game is displayed multiple times. Very early the book reveals this: "The average age in our platoon, I'd guess was nineteen or twenty, and as a consequence things often took on a curiously playful atmosphere, like a sporting event at some exotic reform school. The competition could be lethal, yet there was a childlike exuberance to it all, lots of pranks and horseplay. (O'Brien, 35). The theme continues while he describes the outlandish images of a swimming race he saw while making the decision over the draft. The little boys that hiked around the lake almost mirror the plodding troops going through Vietnam. When Jimmy Cross mentally composes the letter to Kiowa's father, he considers explaining it through golf. In short, this novel considers war as a required PE requirement rather than its true purpose of killing and fighting others. History and Hollywood have transformed war into a bloody game, and this novel simply fuels this fire. At what point will the world realise the horrible effects and deadly effects of war? When will the world recognise that war is more than a simple game ?
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
I Am Unwritten...
(O'Brien, 231-233)
Literary Term: Metaphor
This last scene is one of the most understandable of the book and it gives a very personal insight to O'Brien's life. During the last few pages, Linda explains a comparison explaining death and memories: "Well right now, she said I'm not dead. But when I am it's like...I don't know, I guess it's like being inside a book that nobody is reading...An old one. It's up on a library shelf, so you're safe and everything, but the book hasn't been checked out for a long long time. all you can do is wait. Just hope somebody'll pick it up and start reading" (O'Brien, 232). This seems to finally explain O'Brien's motives for writing this book; it wasn't to just recall his memories, or to simply act as therapy for what he experienced. Rather, O'Brien makes it clear that he does not wish to be a dusty old book. He doesn't want to die forgotten or hidden on a shelf. He wants others to keep his story alive and circulating for years to come. Honestly, I find this to be silly, when you live this earth you're not coming back. No one will care about what materials are left behind, and no matter what, the world will eventually forget every dead person. What matters more is to impact loved ones and to give fully while here, not to preserve for a future one will not be here to see.
Literary Term: Metaphor
This last scene is one of the most understandable of the book and it gives a very personal insight to O'Brien's life. During the last few pages, Linda explains a comparison explaining death and memories: "Well right now, she said I'm not dead. But when I am it's like...I don't know, I guess it's like being inside a book that nobody is reading...An old one. It's up on a library shelf, so you're safe and everything, but the book hasn't been checked out for a long long time. all you can do is wait. Just hope somebody'll pick it up and start reading" (O'Brien, 232). This seems to finally explain O'Brien's motives for writing this book; it wasn't to just recall his memories, or to simply act as therapy for what he experienced. Rather, O'Brien makes it clear that he does not wish to be a dusty old book. He doesn't want to die forgotten or hidden on a shelf. He wants others to keep his story alive and circulating for years to come. Honestly, I find this to be silly, when you live this earth you're not coming back. No one will care about what materials are left behind, and no matter what, the world will eventually forget every dead person. What matters more is to impact loved ones and to give fully while here, not to preserve for a future one will not be here to see.
Your Eyes as We Said Our Goodbyes
(O'Brien, 219-233)
Literary Term: Flat Character
Thoroughout this final chapter, the reader is introduced to Linda, a young child that suffered and died of cancer at a young age. Her death didn't end her involvement in Tim's life, who often thought of her as his first love. She was a humble, kind girl that remains that way after her passing. So, while her character has few personality traits, they are important for the development of Tim and his view of death. There is a touching scene of Tim recieveing a visit from Linda after her passing where she explains her mysterious contentment and happiness in being dead. The light descibed in her eyes represents innocent lives and innocent death. Her death began the fading of Tim's eyes, and his eyes simply got darker throughout his life and the war. However, even thought he lost an innocent view of the world, he still seems to have an innocent hope of peace for the dead. This must have helped him through the war, espeically during death.
Literary Term: Flat Character
Thoroughout this final chapter, the reader is introduced to Linda, a young child that suffered and died of cancer at a young age. Her death didn't end her involvement in Tim's life, who often thought of her as his first love. She was a humble, kind girl that remains that way after her passing. So, while her character has few personality traits, they are important for the development of Tim and his view of death. There is a touching scene of Tim recieveing a visit from Linda after her passing where she explains her mysterious contentment and happiness in being dead. The light descibed in her eyes represents innocent lives and innocent death. Her death began the fading of Tim's eyes, and his eyes simply got darker throughout his life and the war. However, even thought he lost an innocent view of the world, he still seems to have an innocent hope of peace for the dead. This must have helped him through the war, espeically during death.
Identifying the Meat
(O'Brien, 211-212)
Literary Term: Imagery
This gruesome scene describes Rat's mental breakdown including his fear of bugs, gory mental images, and twisted medical mind. He describes his fear in such a way that the reader can almost see his described liver, heads, and tunneling bugs; its disgusting. However within this description, Rat almost seems wise: "The whole war, he said. "You know what it is? Just one big banquet. Meat, man. You and me. Everybody. Meat for the bugs" (O'Brien, 212). It's that simple; no matter the side, both are dying, suffering, and mentally breaking down.
On a different note, this scene freaks me out, but not because of the gore and disturbing images. Rather, as a student interested in heath care as a profession, I fear that this will happen to me. The chance of considering people only as parts scares me to death. However, it is only a matter of keeping morals in check, whether that be by personally getting to know patients or removing oneself from the situation by shooting one's toe off...
Literary Term: Imagery
This gruesome scene describes Rat's mental breakdown including his fear of bugs, gory mental images, and twisted medical mind. He describes his fear in such a way that the reader can almost see his described liver, heads, and tunneling bugs; its disgusting. However within this description, Rat almost seems wise: "The whole war, he said. "You know what it is? Just one big banquet. Meat, man. You and me. Everybody. Meat for the bugs" (O'Brien, 212). It's that simple; no matter the side, both are dying, suffering, and mentally breaking down.
On a different note, this scene freaks me out, but not because of the gore and disturbing images. Rather, as a student interested in heath care as a profession, I fear that this will happen to me. The chance of considering people only as parts scares me to death. However, it is only a matter of keeping morals in check, whether that be by personally getting to know patients or removing oneself from the situation by shooting one's toe off...
"Experience High"
(O'Brien, 183)
"When you're afraid, really afraid, you see things you never saw before, you pay attention to the world. You make close friends. You become part of a tribe and you share the same blood- you give it together you take it together."
This mood of sudden appreciation for life and people can also be described as "experience high". No matter the trip, group, or cause, any gathering of people that bonds over hardship or deeply shares with each other, this gathering of people will feel extremely bonded to the group claiming they are the closest and best of friends.While in this gathering, the people may experience a simplistic love of life, finding joy or peace in almost anything. However, no matter how close the group claims to be or how many plans the group makes for the future, this group have hit their peak of friendship and bonding. Time, distance, and not constantly being together causes the group to grow apart as they return to their lives. The group simply can't fit into each individual world, it only last in the situation. Tim experiences this, displayed in the following quote: "You forfeit membership in the family, the blood fraternity, and no matter how hard you try, you can't pretend to be part of it. That's how I felt- like a civilian- and it made me sad. These guys had been my brothers. We'd loved one another (O'Brien, 186)". One must recognise that this group will never be as close ever again; still, friendships and bonds have formed and will never be forgotten. Those who work hard to maintain such relationships after the group has split are the true friends of the group. True friendship reflects those who try and include a new person in their world.
"When you're afraid, really afraid, you see things you never saw before, you pay attention to the world. You make close friends. You become part of a tribe and you share the same blood- you give it together you take it together."
This mood of sudden appreciation for life and people can also be described as "experience high". No matter the trip, group, or cause, any gathering of people that bonds over hardship or deeply shares with each other, this gathering of people will feel extremely bonded to the group claiming they are the closest and best of friends.While in this gathering, the people may experience a simplistic love of life, finding joy or peace in almost anything. However, no matter how close the group claims to be or how many plans the group makes for the future, this group have hit their peak of friendship and bonding. Time, distance, and not constantly being together causes the group to grow apart as they return to their lives. The group simply can't fit into each individual world, it only last in the situation. Tim experiences this, displayed in the following quote: "You forfeit membership in the family, the blood fraternity, and no matter how hard you try, you can't pretend to be part of it. That's how I felt- like a civilian- and it made me sad. These guys had been my brothers. We'd loved one another (O'Brien, 186)". One must recognise that this group will never be as close ever again; still, friendships and bonds have formed and will never be forgotten. Those who work hard to maintain such relationships after the group has split are the true friends of the group. True friendship reflects those who try and include a new person in their world.
A Bit of Earth
(O'Brien, 173)
"The field was still there, though not as I remembered it. Much smaller, I thought, and not nearly so menacing and in the bright sunlight it was hard to picture what had happened on this ground some twenty years ago. Except for a few marshy spots along the river, everything was bone dry. No ghosts- just a flat grassy field. The place was at peace."
Unlike the human race, the earth and nature has the ability to simply move on. Whether there is death, success, or hardship, nature will forgive, forget, and move on. The human race is constantly fighting nature by claiming ownership and trying to overcome natural response. We fight to have more than we would ever need and reject the call to live in community. Human focus has become more materialistic and revolving on personal needs. Doing so seems to have resulted in our inability to forgive or move on. Sometimes, people simply need to let go, and thankfully Tim finds peace in this scene as he gives final goodbyes to Kiowa. Finding peace simply requires being as humble as the earth and forgiving what cannot be redone.
"The field was still there, though not as I remembered it. Much smaller, I thought, and not nearly so menacing and in the bright sunlight it was hard to picture what had happened on this ground some twenty years ago. Except for a few marshy spots along the river, everything was bone dry. No ghosts- just a flat grassy field. The place was at peace."
Unlike the human race, the earth and nature has the ability to simply move on. Whether there is death, success, or hardship, nature will forgive, forget, and move on. The human race is constantly fighting nature by claiming ownership and trying to overcome natural response. We fight to have more than we would ever need and reject the call to live in community. Human focus has become more materialistic and revolving on personal needs. Doing so seems to have resulted in our inability to forgive or move on. Sometimes, people simply need to let go, and thankfully Tim finds peace in this scene as he gives final goodbyes to Kiowa. Finding peace simply requires being as humble as the earth and forgiving what cannot be redone.
The Things I Did Not Know at First I Learned by doing Twice...
(O'Brien, 163-165)
Literary Term: Flashback
The entire evening of the death of Kiowa is a constant flashback for Norman Bowker. The previous chapter devoted to his life after the war reveals the metal death he had that evening; his entire life and conscience was lost that night and now he suffers an existence he sees no worth in. Pity is a common reaction to this situation; it doesn't seem fair that this man feels responsible for not only killing another person but also having it be one of his good friends. With such guilt and loss of purpose, it is somewhat hard to determine who had the worst outcome that evening, displayed in the following quote: "He was alone. He lost everything. He'd lost Kiowa and his weapon and his flashlight and his girlfriend's picture. he remembered this. He remembered wondering if he could lost himself." Norman isn't the only one that feels responsible for Kiowa's death; Jimmy Cross spends the morning after the attack recalling his previous mistakes and trying to compose himself. He and the other men recognise he acted as a horrible military leader and now Jimmy has to take responsibly. I cannot imagine living in a situation where the smallest mistakes of turning on a flashlight or not reconsidering a location can lead to death. Men of war carry such responsibly whether they recognise it or not.
Literary Term: Flashback
The entire evening of the death of Kiowa is a constant flashback for Norman Bowker. The previous chapter devoted to his life after the war reveals the metal death he had that evening; his entire life and conscience was lost that night and now he suffers an existence he sees no worth in. Pity is a common reaction to this situation; it doesn't seem fair that this man feels responsible for not only killing another person but also having it be one of his good friends. With such guilt and loss of purpose, it is somewhat hard to determine who had the worst outcome that evening, displayed in the following quote: "He was alone. He lost everything. He'd lost Kiowa and his weapon and his flashlight and his girlfriend's picture. he remembered this. He remembered wondering if he could lost himself." Norman isn't the only one that feels responsible for Kiowa's death; Jimmy Cross spends the morning after the attack recalling his previous mistakes and trying to compose himself. He and the other men recognise he acted as a horrible military leader and now Jimmy has to take responsibly. I cannot imagine living in a situation where the smallest mistakes of turning on a flashlight or not reconsidering a location can lead to death. Men of war carry such responsibly whether they recognise it or not.
The Newest Video Game
(O'Brien, 156)
"The filth seemed to erase identities, transforming the men into identical copies of a single soldier, which was exactly how Jimmy Cross has been trained to treat them, as interchangeable units of command"
As the tired and disgusting solders search in this field, they finally fit the ideal mold of solders. It takes shit for them to be treated like shit. Training soldiers to view others as nonhuman is one of the most distasteful elements of war. Humans who treat each other as animals, targets, or other images are twisted, but thankfully most people and solders are incapable of holding such views. This is displayed in Tim's guilt of the death he witnessed and war tales everywhere. No matter how much training soldiers receive, when they are face-to-face with the enemy they simply can't overcome the thought of killing another human being. The book On Killing by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman looks at this by studying the physiological aspects of learning to kill in war and society. It's an interesting book that not only studies solders on the battle field, but also studies the effects of killing and war on veterans. The book also studies the concept of new technology that is further separating soldiers from the people they are killing, thus making it more like a video game. That mental barrier of personal guilt and moral wrongs is conquered and this will result in the deaths of many more people. Personally, this makes me nervous and I hope that there will not be a major world war ever again.
"The filth seemed to erase identities, transforming the men into identical copies of a single soldier, which was exactly how Jimmy Cross has been trained to treat them, as interchangeable units of command"
As the tired and disgusting solders search in this field, they finally fit the ideal mold of solders. It takes shit for them to be treated like shit. Training soldiers to view others as nonhuman is one of the most distasteful elements of war. Humans who treat each other as animals, targets, or other images are twisted, but thankfully most people and solders are incapable of holding such views. This is displayed in Tim's guilt of the death he witnessed and war tales everywhere. No matter how much training soldiers receive, when they are face-to-face with the enemy they simply can't overcome the thought of killing another human being. The book On Killing by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman looks at this by studying the physiological aspects of learning to kill in war and society. It's an interesting book that not only studies solders on the battle field, but also studies the effects of killing and war on veterans. The book also studies the concept of new technology that is further separating soldiers from the people they are killing, thus making it more like a video game. That mental barrier of personal guilt and moral wrongs is conquered and this will result in the deaths of many more people. Personally, this makes me nervous and I hope that there will not be a major world war ever again.
Monday, August 9, 2010
The Little Things Count
(O'Brien, 141)
Literary Term: Mood
"Sometimes the bravest thing on earth was to sit through night and feel the cold in your bones. Courage was not always a matter of yes and no. sometimes it came in degrees, like the cold; sometimes you were very brave up to a point and then beyond that point you were not so brave. In certain situations you could do incredible things, you could advance toward enemy fire, but in other situations, which were not nearly so bad, you had trouble keeping your eyes open. sometimes, like the night in the shit field, the difference between courage and cowardice was something small and stupid."
This entire chapter was devoted to the horrible, and well, shitty evening in the field of poop. Still, even though the event was devastating, this was a very moving passage of the book. The aura of humble acceptance is astounding giving the novel a realistic tone. Many war tales don't focus on weakness or indecision, rather these stories revolve around exceptional risks and sacrifice. While tales of greatness and strength are remarkable, this atmosphere of humble truth makes these soldiers who are trained to be "heroic" killing machines more human. The stereotypical Hollywood image of war hides these faults while highlighting the animal-like behaviors of war, free of wrong-doing and hurt. Additionally rather than bluntly stating hardship or complaining, this passage recognizes mistakes and failure. Personally, I find the attitude in this section to be one of the most impacting scenes of the book, and I wish the entire work was written this way.
Literary Term: Mood
"Sometimes the bravest thing on earth was to sit through night and feel the cold in your bones. Courage was not always a matter of yes and no. sometimes it came in degrees, like the cold; sometimes you were very brave up to a point and then beyond that point you were not so brave. In certain situations you could do incredible things, you could advance toward enemy fire, but in other situations, which were not nearly so bad, you had trouble keeping your eyes open. sometimes, like the night in the shit field, the difference between courage and cowardice was something small and stupid."
This entire chapter was devoted to the horrible, and well, shitty evening in the field of poop. Still, even though the event was devastating, this was a very moving passage of the book. The aura of humble acceptance is astounding giving the novel a realistic tone. Many war tales don't focus on weakness or indecision, rather these stories revolve around exceptional risks and sacrifice. While tales of greatness and strength are remarkable, this atmosphere of humble truth makes these soldiers who are trained to be "heroic" killing machines more human. The stereotypical Hollywood image of war hides these faults while highlighting the animal-like behaviors of war, free of wrong-doing and hurt. Additionally rather than bluntly stating hardship or complaining, this passage recognizes mistakes and failure. Personally, I find the attitude in this section to be one of the most impacting scenes of the book, and I wish the entire work was written this way.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
And the World was Dancing...
(O'Brien, 129-130)
"A while later when we moved out of the hamlet, she was still dancing. "Probably some weird ritual," Azar said, but Henry Dobbins looked back and said no, the girl just liked to dance."
This short chapter captures a few different important elements of this tale. It contributes to the characterization of Henry Dobbins, one of the best characters, as he respects the young girl dancing. The chapter also builds on the theme of silence; however, in this instance the silence is only there for those who can't listen to or hear the music playing in the ears of the dancing girl. The desire to only hear silence plays into the biggest idea of this chapter; the group especially Azar wants to follow the tradition of mourning the dead. They simply can't understand how this gal is not only dancing, but is also smiling and ignoring her family and them. They want her to feel hardship and sorrow and fit the their mold. Common of human nature, Azar tries everything to try and solve this abnormal behavior, from claiming it to be ritual to mocking her. On of the largest flaws of human nature is denying differences, displayed in our habits of war and segregation. Instead, perhaps we should dance rather than question those who do.
"A while later when we moved out of the hamlet, she was still dancing. "Probably some weird ritual," Azar said, but Henry Dobbins looked back and said no, the girl just liked to dance."
This short chapter captures a few different important elements of this tale. It contributes to the characterization of Henry Dobbins, one of the best characters, as he respects the young girl dancing. The chapter also builds on the theme of silence; however, in this instance the silence is only there for those who can't listen to or hear the music playing in the ears of the dancing girl. The desire to only hear silence plays into the biggest idea of this chapter; the group especially Azar wants to follow the tradition of mourning the dead. They simply can't understand how this gal is not only dancing, but is also smiling and ignoring her family and them. They want her to feel hardship and sorrow and fit the their mold. Common of human nature, Azar tries everything to try and solve this abnormal behavior, from claiming it to be ritual to mocking her. On of the largest flaws of human nature is denying differences, displayed in our habits of war and segregation. Instead, perhaps we should dance rather than question those who do.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Different Views of the Stained Glass
(O'Brien, 113-117)
Literary Term: Foil Characters
As they visit the monks, Kiowa and Henry Dobbins are revealed as foil characters concerning religion.
Kiowa: Throughout the entire book, he makes it clear that he has religion due to his Bible and comments such as "It's bad news, you don't mess with churches" (O'Brien,113). However, his faith is only skin-deep, for later her reveals that he is religious simply because he was raised that way. He only believes because it was how he grew up that way.
Dobbins: Although he is not pronounced as beginning to religion, he holds interest in belong to a church or being a minister. While Kiowa has never thought of being a minister, Dobbins has thought of it because he feels called to show respect and care towards others.
While both of these characters act positively towards religion, they have quite different attitudes towards it. Kiowa remains concerned in maintaining his tradition and finds comfort in the structure and traditions of the church while Dobbins grasps more towards more Christian-like teachings of respect and love. They hold different opinions of the purpose of the church and its ministries.
Literary Term: Foil Characters
As they visit the monks, Kiowa and Henry Dobbins are revealed as foil characters concerning religion.
Kiowa: Throughout the entire book, he makes it clear that he has religion due to his Bible and comments such as "It's bad news, you don't mess with churches" (O'Brien,113). However, his faith is only skin-deep, for later her reveals that he is religious simply because he was raised that way. He only believes because it was how he grew up that way.
Dobbins: Although he is not pronounced as beginning to religion, he holds interest in belong to a church or being a minister. While Kiowa has never thought of being a minister, Dobbins has thought of it because he feels called to show respect and care towards others.
While both of these characters act positively towards religion, they have quite different attitudes towards it. Kiowa remains concerned in maintaining his tradition and finds comfort in the structure and traditions of the church while Dobbins grasps more towards more Christian-like teachings of respect and love. They hold different opinions of the purpose of the church and its ministries.
Ain't that America?
(O'Brien, 111-112)
Within these few pages, the stocking-wrapping character Henry Dobbins is introduced. He is portrayed as an image of America: big, strong, full of good intention, and sentimental. I find his character to be good-hearted and likable. After he is dumped by the girlfriend who gave him his stockings, he claims: No sweat, he said. The magic is still there" (O'Brien, 112). This situation poses the following question: What comforts of America does one cling to as the world changes? By reviewing this nations' history, a few ideals that have lasted will hopefully always be found in this nation. The sense of community, family, and fellowship have been stationary beginning founding colonies, within schools, sports, churches, and through today. This nation will hopefully always be a place of hope, development, culture, and change. Just as Dobbins was able to keep his good spirits, hopefully America can always remain in the positive.
Within these few pages, the stocking-wrapping character Henry Dobbins is introduced. He is portrayed as an image of America: big, strong, full of good intention, and sentimental. I find his character to be good-hearted and likable. After he is dumped by the girlfriend who gave him his stockings, he claims: No sweat, he said. The magic is still there" (O'Brien, 112). This situation poses the following question: What comforts of America does one cling to as the world changes? By reviewing this nations' history, a few ideals that have lasted will hopefully always be found in this nation. The sense of community, family, and fellowship have been stationary beginning founding colonies, within schools, sports, churches, and through today. This nation will hopefully always be a place of hope, development, culture, and change. Just as Dobbins was able to keep his good spirits, hopefully America can always remain in the positive.
It's the Circle of...Tongues..
(O'Brien, 89-112)
During this passage the character Mary Anne is introduced, as one of the most understandable characters of the book. It is admirable how she adapts so quickly to the gruesome gore of the medical work. She becomes an independent mind and good worker, however, this is not excepted by her man Fossie. As Mary Anne becomes more knowledgeable about the war and its work, she starts to represent the changing image of women, and Fossie represents those who wished to keep traditional roles. And just as Mary Anne left Fossie, the traditional view is left behind as the world grew. The change is represented in a quote: "You got here blinders one about women. how gentle and peaceful they are. All that crap about how if we had a pussy for president there wouldn't be no more wars. Pure garbage. You got to rid of that sexist attitude" (O'Brien, 102). Mary Anne's symbolism is further carried out when she wears a necklace of tongues (EWW); she is finally speaking her mind and finally at peace. (Where the peace in that is...who knows..) Unfortunately she loses Fossie, who is deaf to her changed personally and the changing world.
During this passage the character Mary Anne is introduced, as one of the most understandable characters of the book. It is admirable how she adapts so quickly to the gruesome gore of the medical work. She becomes an independent mind and good worker, however, this is not excepted by her man Fossie. As Mary Anne becomes more knowledgeable about the war and its work, she starts to represent the changing image of women, and Fossie represents those who wished to keep traditional roles. And just as Mary Anne left Fossie, the traditional view is left behind as the world grew. The change is represented in a quote: "You got here blinders one about women. how gentle and peaceful they are. All that crap about how if we had a pussy for president there wouldn't be no more wars. Pure garbage. You got to rid of that sexist attitude" (O'Brien, 102). Mary Anne's symbolism is further carried out when she wears a necklace of tongues (EWW); she is finally speaking her mind and finally at peace. (Where the peace in that is...who knows..) Unfortunately she loses Fossie, who is deaf to her changed personally and the changing world.
Two birds with One Stone
(O'Brien, 76)
Literary Term: Allusion
" Well that's Nam, he said. Garden of Evil. Over here, man, every sin's real fresh and original."
This statement is making two possible allusions by using the phrase "Garden of Evil". This may be a possible spin-off of the Garden of Eden, the paradise of the Creation story, supported by the discussion of sin in the second half of the sentence. Additionally this allusion supports the moral conflicts of war and killing. In contrast, this may be making a reference to a 1954 Western titled The Garden of Evil. The plot of this film included a "garden" or a mine site that Indians have decided is full with evil spirits. The allusion towards the film would fit the fear and awe the men hold towards the land. In my opinion, I think the allusion of the Garden of Eden better fits the novel, especially this scene of the killing of the baby buffalo. Support for a connection towards the Garden of Eden can also be found in a passage earlier on the page: "We had witnessed something essential, something brand-new and profound, a place of the world so startling there was not yet a name for it" (O'Brien, 76). However both allusions work.
Literary Term: Allusion
" Well that's Nam, he said. Garden of Evil. Over here, man, every sin's real fresh and original."
This statement is making two possible allusions by using the phrase "Garden of Evil". This may be a possible spin-off of the Garden of Eden, the paradise of the Creation story, supported by the discussion of sin in the second half of the sentence. Additionally this allusion supports the moral conflicts of war and killing. In contrast, this may be making a reference to a 1954 Western titled The Garden of Evil. The plot of this film included a "garden" or a mine site that Indians have decided is full with evil spirits. The allusion towards the film would fit the fear and awe the men hold towards the land. In my opinion, I think the allusion of the Garden of Eden better fits the novel, especially this scene of the killing of the baby buffalo. Support for a connection towards the Garden of Eden can also be found in a passage earlier on the page: "We had witnessed something essential, something brand-new and profound, a place of the world so startling there was not yet a name for it" (O'Brien, 76). However both allusions work.
Blame it on the War
(O' Brien, 74)
Literary Term: Personification
"True war stories do not generalize. The do not indulge in abstraction or analysis....A true war story, if truly told, makes the stomach believe."
O' Brien has a habit of giving a human persona to war, war stories, and even the land of Vietnam. His motives for doing so could reflect his attitude toward his service; perhaps the war consumed him while he was there. He continuously conveys his weak status over his placement or commands. These stories give the impression that the men and soldiers have no control of the situation, just as O'Brien had no control over any of his service from the draft to the marching and fighting.
Or perhaps O'Brien brings war and Vietnam to life as a way to justify his involvement in war efforts. Instead of placing the blame of the war on anyone, he acts as if it is some third person in the battle to which both sides are losing to. He even makes war stories their own character, trying to explain the crazy things that happened. So by making these elements more human-like, the war becomes increasingly bizarre, reflecting the fear and confusion of the men that served.
Literary Term: Personification
"True war stories do not generalize. The do not indulge in abstraction or analysis....A true war story, if truly told, makes the stomach believe."
O' Brien has a habit of giving a human persona to war, war stories, and even the land of Vietnam. His motives for doing so could reflect his attitude toward his service; perhaps the war consumed him while he was there. He continuously conveys his weak status over his placement or commands. These stories give the impression that the men and soldiers have no control of the situation, just as O'Brien had no control over any of his service from the draft to the marching and fighting.
Or perhaps O'Brien brings war and Vietnam to life as a way to justify his involvement in war efforts. Instead of placing the blame of the war on anyone, he acts as if it is some third person in the battle to which both sides are losing to. He even makes war stories their own character, trying to explain the crazy things that happened. So by making these elements more human-like, the war becomes increasingly bizarre, reflecting the fear and confusion of the men that served.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
And This is What Happened, the Strange thing that Happened..
(O'Brien, 72)
Literary Term: Allusion
"Around dawn things finally get quiet. Like you never even heard quiet before. One of those real thick, real misty days- just clouds and fog, they're off in this special zone- and the mountains are absolutely dead-flat silent. Like Brigadoon- pure vapor, you know? Everything's all sucked up inside the fog. not a single sound, except they still hear it."
Shockingly, this novel made a call-out to all musical junkies. The musical Brigadoon in short is about a town that exist for one day only for every one hundred years. During the rest of the days the people of the town are asleep in the fog of the enchanted area they live in. The description of the fog fits in perfectly with the very detailed image of this fog, and gives it an enchanted aura. However, it's kinda hard to place singing, dancing, and Gene Kelly within a battle zone...and yet in a way it fits. While the troops follow orders and complete tasks, they always seem to find time to mess around. The delusional aspects of war have them going crazy and acting as strange as it would be to sing and have choreographed dance in real life. The following link will take you to the trailer for the film of Brigadoon, Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61MEKyAQSpg
Literary Term: Allusion
"Around dawn things finally get quiet. Like you never even heard quiet before. One of those real thick, real misty days- just clouds and fog, they're off in this special zone- and the mountains are absolutely dead-flat silent. Like Brigadoon- pure vapor, you know? Everything's all sucked up inside the fog. not a single sound, except they still hear it."
Shockingly, this novel made a call-out to all musical junkies. The musical Brigadoon in short is about a town that exist for one day only for every one hundred years. During the rest of the days the people of the town are asleep in the fog of the enchanted area they live in. The description of the fog fits in perfectly with the very detailed image of this fog, and gives it an enchanted aura. However, it's kinda hard to place singing, dancing, and Gene Kelly within a battle zone...and yet in a way it fits. While the troops follow orders and complete tasks, they always seem to find time to mess around. The delusional aspects of war have them going crazy and acting as strange as it would be to sing and have choreographed dance in real life. The following link will take you to the trailer for the film of Brigadoon, Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61MEKyAQSpg
Why I Hate True or False Questions...
(O'Brien, 68)
Literary term: Juxtaposition
" Often the crazy stuff is true and the normal stuff isn't, because the normal stuff is necessary to make you believe the truly incredible craziness."
This sentence tries to make the point that normal is unbelievable and craziness is true. In addition to not usually being associated, these statements are difficult to swallow. The structure of this sentence just adds to the craziness of these ideas; there seems to be too much in this sentence. Anyways, after reading this passage, I couldn't help but try to recall all personal war stories and decipher what was true. Additionally I now am having difficultly believing any of the stories of this book; every time I finish a story the following chapter claims what is fake which just angers me. Stories lose their credibility when they are classified as not true. Whatever makes a story or book more personal whether it be a direct tale or never revealed as fake, in my opinion, creates a better tale. So while I'm sad that some aspects of war tales may be fabricated, I would rather not be told then be blasted with the verdict what is real or not.
Literary term: Juxtaposition
" Often the crazy stuff is true and the normal stuff isn't, because the normal stuff is necessary to make you believe the truly incredible craziness."
This sentence tries to make the point that normal is unbelievable and craziness is true. In addition to not usually being associated, these statements are difficult to swallow. The structure of this sentence just adds to the craziness of these ideas; there seems to be too much in this sentence. Anyways, after reading this passage, I couldn't help but try to recall all personal war stories and decipher what was true. Additionally I now am having difficultly believing any of the stories of this book; every time I finish a story the following chapter claims what is fake which just angers me. Stories lose their credibility when they are classified as not true. Whatever makes a story or book more personal whether it be a direct tale or never revealed as fake, in my opinion, creates a better tale. So while I'm sad that some aspects of war tales may be fabricated, I would rather not be told then be blasted with the verdict what is real or not.
A Unhappy Coward
(O'Brien, 58)
"I survived, but it's not a happy ending. I was a coward I went to the war"
Literary Term: Verbal Irony
This short sentence has two separate instances of irony. First and foremost, I think that by saying surviving is not a happy ending is ironic. Without survival, there would be no ending at all; those who survive should consider it a happy ending. Additionally, the implication that a going to war is a cowardly affair can be claimed as ironic. The stereotypical image of brave men going to war holds no room for cowards. However, I think this view is explained earlier in the novel. "Some carried themselves with a sort of wistful resignation, others with pride or stiff soldierly discipline or good humor or macho zeal. They were afraid of dying but they were even more afraid to show it...They carried the soldier's greatest fear, which was the fear of blushing. Men killed and died because they were more embarrassed not to." (O'Brien, 19-20). This is my image of a solider, some only act ting out of fear of embarrassment. The fact that people die due to embarrassment is distasteful and sickening.
"I survived, but it's not a happy ending. I was a coward I went to the war"
Literary Term: Verbal Irony
This short sentence has two separate instances of irony. First and foremost, I think that by saying surviving is not a happy ending is ironic. Without survival, there would be no ending at all; those who survive should consider it a happy ending. Additionally, the implication that a going to war is a cowardly affair can be claimed as ironic. The stereotypical image of brave men going to war holds no room for cowards. However, I think this view is explained earlier in the novel. "Some carried themselves with a sort of wistful resignation, others with pride or stiff soldierly discipline or good humor or macho zeal. They were afraid of dying but they were even more afraid to show it...They carried the soldier's greatest fear, which was the fear of blushing. Men killed and died because they were more embarrassed not to." (O'Brien, 19-20). This is my image of a solider, some only act ting out of fear of embarrassment. The fact that people die due to embarrassment is distasteful and sickening.
Close the Window
(O'Brien, 38-39)
"Young, yes and politically naive, but even so the American war in Vietnam seemed to me wrong. Certain blood was being shed for uncertain reasons . I saw no unity of purpose, no consensus on matters of philosophy or history or law....Knowledge, of course, is always imperfect, hut it seemed to me that when a nation goes to war it must have reasonable confidence in the justice and imperative of its cause....I was too good for war."
This section captures what I believe would be my attitude if I was drafted for a war. During this time, education new ideas of peace and diplomacy were growing, and with the unclear motives for war, the distaste to serve is understandable. I think that if a war draft occurred today, even more resentment would occur. The opportunity to go to school and have a career has grown these past few decades and serving in a war would take prime years away from this goal. The drive to serve in order to have a purpose for life is decaying. Additionally, it seems that politically issues are become too complex and irrational to simply be solved with war. This nation would have issues bonding under one set of politically ideals to fight under. Hopefully a draft or large war will not happen anytime soon.
"Young, yes and politically naive, but even so the American war in Vietnam seemed to me wrong. Certain blood was being shed for uncertain reasons . I saw no unity of purpose, no consensus on matters of philosophy or history or law....Knowledge, of course, is always imperfect, hut it seemed to me that when a nation goes to war it must have reasonable confidence in the justice and imperative of its cause....I was too good for war."
This section captures what I believe would be my attitude if I was drafted for a war. During this time, education new ideas of peace and diplomacy were growing, and with the unclear motives for war, the distaste to serve is understandable. I think that if a war draft occurred today, even more resentment would occur. The opportunity to go to school and have a career has grown these past few decades and serving in a war would take prime years away from this goal. The drive to serve in order to have a purpose for life is decaying. Additionally, it seems that politically issues are become too complex and irrational to simply be solved with war. This nation would have issues bonding under one set of politically ideals to fight under. Hopefully a draft or large war will not happen anytime soon.
Kinda Run of the Mill..
(O'Brien, 1-25)
This first chapter basically barfed a bunch of ideas and images of war upon the reader, and while it was an interesting and unique section, my mind simply kept reeling to basically every other war story, movie, and song I had ever heard. For example, the quote"They marched for the sake of the march. They plodded along slowly, dumbly, leaning forward against the heat unthinking, all blood and bone, simple grunts, soldiering with their legs..." (O'Brien, 16) makes me ponder Forest Gump. Or when the men burn down an entire town, all I could think about was the Civil War film Glory when a troop becomes savage and attacks a town. And honestly, the whole ordeal with Martha just open the floodgates of war love stories. In short, nothing in this section of the book really impacted me; it was just another war story. War is simply a topic that cannot be captured; there don't seem to be enough words to capture it and as a result all descriptions all begin to sound the same. Personally, I didn't read anything new in this section and I think the only way I could really learn something would to actually partake in war. However I think this section was a good introduction to the book because it placed the mindset of war including songs, images, and movie scenes...
This first chapter basically barfed a bunch of ideas and images of war upon the reader, and while it was an interesting and unique section, my mind simply kept reeling to basically every other war story, movie, and song I had ever heard. For example, the quote"They marched for the sake of the march. They plodded along slowly, dumbly, leaning forward against the heat unthinking, all blood and bone, simple grunts, soldiering with their legs..." (O'Brien, 16) makes me ponder Forest Gump. Or when the men burn down an entire town, all I could think about was the Civil War film Glory when a troop becomes savage and attacks a town. And honestly, the whole ordeal with Martha just open the floodgates of war love stories. In short, nothing in this section of the book really impacted me; it was just another war story. War is simply a topic that cannot be captured; there don't seem to be enough words to capture it and as a result all descriptions all begin to sound the same. Personally, I didn't read anything new in this section and I think the only way I could really learn something would to actually partake in war. However I think this section was a good introduction to the book because it placed the mindset of war including songs, images, and movie scenes...
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