Lieutenant Jimmy Cross in The Things They Carried

Introduction

War is a transformative experience that often shapes the lives of those involved. In Tim O'Brien's novel The Things They Carried, the character of Lieutenant Jimmy Cross serves as a focal point for exploring the psychological and emotional burdens carried by soldiers during the Vietnam War. This essay will delve into the complexities of Lieutenant Cross's character, examining his leadership, personal growth, and the impact of his love for Martha. Through an analysis of his experiences and their implications, it becomes evident that Lieutenant Jimmy Cross personifies the weight of responsibility and the sacrifices made in war.

Body

Lieutenant Jimmy Cross is initially portrayed as a leader who is preoccupied with thoughts of Martha, a woman he loves back home. His preoccupation with Martha, however, impacts his ability to effectively lead his men. O'Brien writes, "Lieutenant Cross carried his love for Martha...and it was not abstract" (O'Brien 12). This quote illustrates how Lieutenant Cross's emotional burden affects his decision-making and distracts him from his responsibilities as a leader. The weight of this responsibility becomes evident when Cross blames himself for the death of one of his soldiers, Ted Lavender, who was killed while Cross was daydreaming about Martha. This incident prompts a transformation in Lieutenant Cross, as he realizes the importance of prioritizing the safety of his men over personal desires.

Lieutenant Jimmy Cross's personal growth is further exemplified through his evolving leadership style. As Cross learns to prioritize his duties, he becomes more attentive and vigilant. O'Brien describes how Cross "crouched at the bottom of his foxhole and burned Martha's letters...he realized that his obligation was not to be loved but to lead" (O'Brien 24). This transformation demonstrates Cross's understanding of the weight of his role and his commitment to the well-being of his soldiers. His growth as a leader is essential in understanding the profound impact of the war on his character.

Lieutenant Jimmy Cross's love for Martha serves as a metaphorical burden throughout the novel, symbolizing the emotional weight carried by soldiers in war. O'Brien describes Martha's letters as "more than love" (O'Brien 12), suggesting that they represent a connection to a world far removed from the horrors of war. The letters become a refuge for Cross, providing comfort and a temporary escape from the harsh realities of combat. However, this love also becomes a source of guilt, as Cross feels responsible for his men while simultaneously longing for a life outside of war.

The burden of love is further emphasized through the imagery of Lieutenant Cross's physical and emotional baggage. O'Brien describes the items carried by Cross and his men, highlighting their personal attachments and vulnerabilities. Cross carries photographs, letters, and a pebble from Martha, all of which symbolize his longing and emotional baggage. These items weigh on him, both physically and mentally, representing the sacrifices and emotional toll of war.

Conclusion

Lieutenant Jimmy Cross in The Things They Carried embodies the weight of responsibility and the sacrifices made by soldiers in war. Through his journey as a leader and his burden of love for Martha, Cross undergoes a transformation that highlights the psychological and emotional burdens carried by those involved in war. His personal growth and evolving leadership style underscore the complexities of human emotions and the challenges faced by soldiers in combat. Lieutenant Cross's character serves as a reminder of the profound impact of war on both individuals and society as a whole, urging us to reflect on the consequences of conflict and the lasting effects it has on those who experience it firsthand.

Bibliography

O'Brien, Tim. The Things They Carried. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1990.