Hell, No, We Didn't Go!

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

Hell, No, We Didn't Go! by Eli Greenbaum is a compelling exploration of personal accounts from individuals who resisted or dodged the Vietnam War draft. Through vivid oral histories, Greenbaum presents the emotionally charged and often volatile encounters these individuals had with the Selective Service System. By intertwining his own experiences with those of the interviewees, the book offers a richly layered narrative that sheds light on the strong antiwar sentiment during the Vietnam War era.

Main Themes and Topics

The primary theme of Hell, No, We Didn't Go! is the exploration of protest and resistance against the Vietnam War draft. The book delves into personal motivations and the societal implications of refusing to participate in what was seen as an unjust war. Themes of personal courage, moral conviction, and civil disobedience are prevalent throughout the narrative. Additionally, the book offers insights into the controversial and emotional nature of draft resistance, providing a detailed account of how individual choices intersected with historical and political processes.

Writing Style and Tone

Eli Greenbaum's writing style in Hell, No, We Didn't Go! is both engaging and accessible. His approach to storytelling combines personal narrative with the interviews, providing a balanced and comprehensive account of the era. The tone is reflective and empathetic, capturing the complexities of the individuals' experiences while offering insightful commentary that contextualizes the broader antiwar movement. The rich, detailed oral histories create an immersive reading experience that successfully conveys the emotional intensity of the period.

Criticism

One criticism of Hell, No, We Didn't Go! could be its focus on a specific viewpoint, potentially leaving other perspectives underexplored. While the oral histories provide valuable insights into the motivations of draft resisters, some readers might wish for a more comprehensive examination that includes voices from those who made different choices. Nevertheless, the book's focus remains powerful in showcasing a vital aspect of the Vietnam War narrative.