Initially, I wasn't planning on writing a post about The Things They Carried because I thought it would just end up sounding like everyone else's. However, the more I read this incredible book, the more I feel like not posting something about it denies it credit that it so completely deserves. And so, while attempting to ignore the shock I am experiencing as a result of realizing that I actually agree with the sentiments of nearly everybody in this class, I say this: I love this book.
The Things They Carried is absolutely fantastic, and Tim O'Brien is just. . .brilliant. He's so open with his explanation of the war in Vietnam. Nothing he writes seems out of place or unnecessary. It's all wonderful and captivating. I especially have the greatest appreciation possible for his vivid descriptions and evident voice. The writing in this book is beautiful, and each page I turn increases the effect that O'Brien is having on me.
Another aspect that I really enjoy about The Things They Carried is how the book is laid out as a series of short stories about O'Brien's life and experiences during the time of the war. I think it's really cool how each section could easily be read separately and be effective and is still totally interconnected with the others when presented as a complete book.
In a word, this book is powerful. I never expected that I could be this impressed or infatuated with a book about war, but I think that's because my idea of what war is has been formed with little investigation. Through reading this book, I'm learning about a subject I've never really explored before, developing new opinions, changing as a reader and writer, and, perhaps most importantly, feeling as though my time is being well-spent. Because of these things, I am very grateful to have been introduced to this book and writer Tim O'Brien. Thanks, Mr. Kunkle!
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I'm basically on the same page.... this book is awesome.
ReplyDeleteThis blog is very iconic! I liked it very much.
ReplyDeleteI also really like this book so far.
ReplyDelete"Nothing he writes seems out of place or unnecessary." I completely agree with this. A lot of times when I'm reading something, I find myself wondering why a certain passage was put in. Not so with this book.
Nice post.
Congratulations! You have just successfully read my mind. I agree 100% with your post. I read pages 80-82 over and over again because I couldn't get enough. I'm super surprised that it's had this much of an impact on me, considering it's a book I'm being forced to read. But hey, I'm not going to lie--I love it.
ReplyDeleteali girl, you said it perfectly. i think regardless of what peter says in class, this book is amazing. i dont know if your a mind reader, but you stated it beautifully. even if the boys in the class dont like it as much, who needs them for discussion anyways. way to go girl! (:
ReplyDeleteThelma-
ReplyDeleteEven though I'm just now reading this, I felt the need to comment with my agreement :). When Kunkle said we were reading a book on the war, I got a little nervous. I immediately thought "uh oh, another history textbook...". However, that wasn't the case at all! His book was fantastic, and it kept me enthralled the whole time.