In 'On the Rainy River', Tim O'Brien uses vivid descriptions to convey the protagonist's emotions. The river becomes a symbol of both escape and the inescapability of his situation. The characters he meets, like the old man on the boat, also play important roles in highlighting his struggle. Overall, it's a story that makes readers think about the impact of war on individuals and their choices.
One important aspect of 'On the Rainy River' is its use of setting. The Rainy River itself is not just a physical location but also a symbol. It represents the divide between the safety and normalcy of home and the unknown and dangerous world of war. The description of the river and the surrounding area helps to set the mood of the story, which is one of unease and confusion.
Guilt is a significant theme. If he goes to war, he may have to do things he doesn't want to, but if he doesn't, he'll feel guilty for not following what's expected. And there's the theme of the influence of place. The Rainy River setting is not just a backdrop but a place that seems to hold his fate and force him to confront his choices.
The boat in the story can also be seen as a symbol. It might represent the means of escape or the journey that the protagonist is on, both literally on the river and metaphorically in his life. It's a vessel that could take him away from the war, but also one that he has to decide whether to use or not.
One main theme is the conflict between personal beliefs and societal expectations. The protagonist is torn between his anti - war feelings and the pressure to serve in the Vietnam War. Another theme is the idea of moral cowardice versus courage. He has to decide whether running away to Canada is the cowardly option or if going to war against his will is the wrong choice.
The setting of the Rainy River is used symbolically. It represents a sort of in - between place, a liminal space between the safety of Canada and the obligation of going to war in the United States. It's where the narrator has to make his crucial decision.
According to Tim O'Brien, the purpose of a story could be to make sense of the world, to help us understand ourselves and others better, or to provide a form of entertainment that also enlightens.
I'm not sure exactly when it was written, but you might be able to find that information in Tim O'Brien's bibliography or through some literary research.
Tim O'Brien emphasizes the importance of authenticity and raw emotions. He shows that a war story should reveal the truth beneath the surface, not just the events.