The Things They Carried Story Truth Vs Happening Truth Quote
"The Things They Carried" is a book written by Tim O'Brien, which explores the experiences of soldiers during the Vietnam War. It is a blend of fiction and non-fiction, where O'Brien uses his own experiences to create a work of literature that is both honest and imaginative. One of the most powerful themes in the book is the idea of "story truth" versus "happening truth". In this article, we will explore this theme in depth and examine its significance in the book.
What is Story Truth?
Story truth, as defined by O'Brien, is the truth that emerges from storytelling. It is a subjective truth that is shaped by the experience and memory of the storyteller. In "The Things They Carried", O'Brien uses story truth to convey the emotional and psychological realities of war. He tells the stories of soldiers who carry physical and emotional burdens, and who struggle to make sense of their experiences.
One of the most memorable examples of story truth in the book is the story of the soldier who carries his girlfriend's pantyhose as a good luck charm. In reality, the soldier's girlfriend sent him a pair of pantyhose, but he never carried them with him. However, in the story, the pantyhose become a symbol of the soldier's love and his hope for a future beyond the war.
What is Happening Truth?
Happening truth, on the other hand, is the objective truth of what actually happened. It is the truth that can be verified by facts and evidence. In "The Things They Carried", happening truth is often contrasted with story truth, highlighting the gap between what actually happened and how it is remembered and interpreted.
For example, in the story "On the Rainy River", O'Brien writes about his own decision to go to war. He describes how he felt trapped by his sense of duty, but also how he was afraid of the shame that would come with avoiding the draft. The happening truth is that O'Brien did in fact receive a draft notice and went to war. However, the story truth is about the emotional and psychological turmoil that he experienced.
Why is the Theme of Story Truth Vs Happening Truth Important?
The theme of story truth versus happening truth is important because it highlights the complex nature of truth itself. It reminds us that truth is not always objective or straightforward, but is often shaped by our memories, emotions, and experiences.
Furthermore, the theme of story truth versus happening truth is particularly relevant to the Vietnam War, which was marked by controversy and conflicting narratives. In the book, O'Brien uses story truth to convey the emotional and psychological realities of war, which are often overlooked in official accounts of the conflict.
Conclusion
"The Things They Carried" is a powerful work of literature that explores the experiences of soldiers during the Vietnam War. Through the theme of story truth versus happening truth, O'Brien reminds us that truth is not always objective or straightforward. Instead, it is often shaped by our memories, emotions, and experiences. This theme is particularly relevant to the Vietnam War, which was marked by controversy and conflicting narratives. Overall, "The Things They Carried" is an important book that sheds light on the complexities of war and the nature of truth itself.