The Change in Tim O'brien's "The Things They Carried"

War has a profound impact on individuals, shaping their beliefs, emotions, and perspectives. Tim O'Brien's novel, "The Things They Carried," explores the transformative journey of its protagonist, Tim O'Brien, through his experiences in the Vietnam War. Throughout the book, O'Brien undergoes several significant changes that ultimately shape his identity and worldview. This essay will analyze the various ways in which Tim O'Brien changes throughout the novel, highlighting the impact of war on his psyche, relationships, and understanding of truth.

War as a Catalyst for Change

Tim O'Brien's transformation begins with his enlistment in the Vietnam War. Initially, he is driven by societal expectations and a sense of duty. However, as the war progresses, O'Brien's beliefs and perceptions about the nature of war gradually evolve. He questions the purpose and legitimacy of the war, leading to a shift in his mindset. For instance, O'Brien reflects, "A true war story is never moral. It does not instruct, nor encourage virtue, nor suggest models of proper human behavior, nor restrain men from doing the things men have always done" (O'Brien, 68). This realization challenges O'Brien's preconceived notions about war and forces him to confront the harsh realities of conflict.

O'Brien's experiences in Vietnam also have a profound impact on his emotions and mental well-being. The horrors he witnesses and the loss of comrades weigh heavily on his conscience. These traumatic events lead to a deep sense of guilt and remorse, which further contribute to his transformation. O'Brien's emotional journey is exemplified when he says, "That night, Kiowa died. Slow motion. I watched it happen. I could hear the blood. I could hear the gurgle of darkness in his throat. I remember the smell of the war" (O'Brien, 143). The intensity of these emotions reflects the profound change O'Brien undergoes as he grapples with the devastating consequences of war.

Changes in Relationships

Another significant aspect of O'Brien's transformation is the impact of war on his relationships. The bonds forged with his fellow soldiers become essential for survival, but they also profoundly impact his emotional well-being. O'Brien's camaraderie with his comrades provides a sense of belonging and support amidst the chaos of war. However, these relationships are not without their challenges. O'Brien's connection with Kiowa, a fellow soldier, is particularly significant. Kiowa acts as a moral compass for O'Brien, guiding him through the moral complexities of war. When Kiowa dies tragically, O'Brien experiences a profound loss, which further deepens his understanding of the futility of war. This loss forces O'Brien to reevaluate his priorities and further contributes to his transformation.

The Elusive Nature of Truth

Throughout "The Things They Carried," O'Brien grapples with the concept of truth and its subjective nature. This struggle is exemplified through the recurring motif of storytelling. O'Brien acknowledges the inherent unreliability of memory and the ways in which stories can be manipulated to convey a particular truth. As a result, he blurs the line between fact and fiction, allowing the reader to question the authenticity of his narrative. For instance, O'Brien writes, "That's what stories are for. Stories are for joining the past to the future. Stories are for those late hours in the night when you can't remember how you got from where you were to where you are" (O'Brien, 169). This blurring of truth reflects O'Brien's evolving understanding of the complexities of war and the limitations of language in capturing its essence.

Conclusion

Tim O'Brien's transformative journey in "The Things They Carried" is a poignant exploration of the impact of war on an individual's identity, relationships, and understanding of truth. Through his experiences in Vietnam, O'Brien undergoes significant changes that shape his worldview and challenge his preconceived notions. The emotional toll of war, the loss of comrades, and the elusive nature of truth all contribute to O'Brien's transformation. By delving into the intricacies of O'Brien's character, the novel prompts readers to reflect on the broader implications of war and the profound changes it can impose on individuals.

In conclusion, "The Things They Carried" serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of war. Tim O'Brien's journey from a young soldier driven by duty to a reflective writer grappling with the complexities of truth showcases the profound impact of war on the human psyche. By analyzing O'Brien's transformation, readers gain insight into the emotional and psychological toll of war, as well as the ways in which it shapes individuals' identities and perspectives.

Bibliography

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