The futility of war is also a recurring theme. Many recent Vietnam War novels depict the senseless destruction and loss of life. They show how the war seemed to have no clear end goal or positive outcome for many involved, and how it left a long - lasting scar on the countries and people affected.
Love and relationships are common themes. These novels often show the unique aspects of gay love, from the initial attraction to the development of a deep emotional bond. For example, in 'Call Me By Your Name', the love between Elio and Oliver is tender and complex.
Another theme is the clash of cultures. Vietnam has a long history of being influenced by different foreign cultures, like the French and the Americans. Fiction stories often explore how the Vietnamese people adapt, resist, or are changed by these foreign influences. 'The Quiet American' is a good example of this, showing how the Western ideas and actions impact the local people in Vietnam.
Love and relationships are common themes. For example, in Chetan Bhagat's novels like '2 States', it shows the challenges of a relationship between a boy and a girl from different states in India, which involves different cultures and family expectations.
The theme of camaraderie among soldiers is also prevalent. They rely on each other for survival and support. In 'Birdsong', the relationships between the soldiers in the trenches are a key part of the story. Additionally, the theme of the futility of war is often explored. Wars seem to destroy so much for little gain, as seen in many of these novels.
One of the main themes is the horror of war. It shows the brutal battles, destruction, and the toll it took on soldiers. Another theme could be the impact on the Vietnamese people, both civilians and fighters.
The main themes in fiction related to the Vietnam War are usually centered around survival, loss, friendship, and the struggle to come to terms with the war's aftermath. They offer different perspectives on a significant historical event.
One common theme is the horror of war. Novels like 'All Quiet on the Western Front' show the brutal and senseless killing, the destruction of lives and landscapes.
Another theme is the exploration of human psychology. James often delves deep into the minds of his characters, showing their desires, insecurities, and moral dilemmas. In 'The Portrait of a Lady', for instance, we see Isabel Archer's internal struggle as she makes decisions about her life, love, and independence. This exploration of the inner self is a key aspect of many James novels.
Jealousy is a big theme too. These novels usually deal with how characters handle jealousy within a polyamorous setup. They might explore different ways of managing those feelings, like through open communication or self - reflection. For instance, in some novels, a character might learn to accept their partner's other relationships by realizing that their own relationship is still special and unique.
The theme of brotherhood among soldiers is also prominent. The soldiers in these series rely on each other for survival. They form deep bonds in the face of the extreme danger in the jungles of Vietnam. These relationships are often portrayed as a source of strength and comfort in the midst of the chaos and horror of war.