Larry Heinemann était un romancier américain dont l'œuvre traite principalement de la guerre du Vietnam. Son style de prose est intransigeant, dur et honnête, reflétant ses origines de classe ouvrière. Il faisait souvent référence à ses livres sur le Vietnam comme à une « trilogie accidentelle ». Ses nouvelles et essais d'après-guerre ont paru dans de nombreuses revues et anthologies et ont été traduits en plusieurs langues.
Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, this memoir captures Larry Heinemann's profound experiences as a soldier in 1967. The narrative follows his return to Vietnam, where he travels from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, grappling with haunting memories that reshaped his life and impacted his family. Through his journey, Heinemann solidifies his status as a significant voice in chronicling the complexities and horrors of the Vietnam War, offering a raw and honest reflection on his past.
The harrowing aftermath of the Vietnam War is vividly depicted through Paco Sullivan, the sole survivor of a devastating attack at Fire Base Harriette. Rescued after days of suffering, he returns to the U.S. with severe injuries and psychological scars. Struggling to reintegrate into civilian life, Paco seeks solace in a small town, yet the torment of his experiences remains unshakable. This National Book Award-winning narrative explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the enduring impact of war on the human spirit.
The narrative follows Philip Dosier, a young draftee from Chicago, as he navigates the harrowing realities of the Vietnam War. Through his unsparing perspective, readers experience the chaos of combat, the harsh conditions, and the emotional toll of warfare. The story highlights his transformation from an innocent teenager into a battle-hardened soldier, reflecting on the profound changes that war imposes on individuals. Drawing comparisons to classic war literature, it captures the brutal journey toward understanding and maturity amidst the backdrop of conflict.