Carried to the Wall

Main Themes and Topics

In "Carried to the Wall," Kristin Ann Hass delves deeply into the complex and often contentious ways in which the Vietnam War has been memorialized and remembered in America. This book examines the eclectic array of objects left at the Vietnam Veterans War Memorial as symbols of personal and collective memory. Hass argues that these offerings are not only acts of mourning but also part of a larger discourse on how national identity, patriotism, community, and the role of soldiers in society are continually being redefined post-Vietnam War. Through her analysis, she effectively unpacks the notion of public memory and the difficulties associated with remembering the war's impact—both in terms of human cost and the ideological shifts it prompted.

Writing Style and Tone

Kristin Ann Hass employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style that bridges the gap between academic analysis and public interest. Her tone is both contemplative and critical, allowing readers to engage with the profound questions she raises about memory and identity. By providing a rich historical context, Hass ensures that her exploration of the Vietnam War's commemoration is both thorough and thought-provoking, facilitating a deeper understanding of the multi-layered issues at play.

Brief Summary

"Carried to the Wall" offers an enlightening exploration of the Vietnam Veterans War Memorial and the myriad objects left there by visitors. These items, ranging from a bottle of Jack Daniels to a Purple Heart and Bronze Star, serve as poignant reminders of the personal and collective processes of mourning and remembrance. Hass explores how these objects symbolize the attempt by Americans to grapple with the aftermath of the Vietnam War, challenging long-standing notions of national identity and patriotism. By examining these offerings, Hass provides a profound commentary on the ways in which Americans have struggled to come to terms with the war's legacy and its broader implications for society.