Refusal to Submit

Main Themes and Topics

Refusal to Submit by Richard Gould deeply examines the themes of political resistance and personal sacrifice. Set during the tumultuous period of the Vietnam War, the book delves into the Draft Resistance Movement. Gould provides a poignant exploration of a young man's internal struggle and the external consequences of his decision to reject mandatory military service. As he narrates his own experiences of arrest, trial, and imprisonment, Gould contextualizes personal actions within the broader socio-political landscape. The book serves as a reflection on the ethical dilemmas faced by those who oppose war and is an invitation for contemporary readers to engage with moral and political questions.

Writing Style and Tone

The narrative is structured as a series of letters to Gould's college-age children, which lends an intimate tone to the writing. This epistolary format allows the author to seamlessly weave together personal anecdotes with historical analysis. The tone is both reflective and instructive, making it accessible to readers who may not be familiar with the Vietnam era but are interested in activism and moral decision-making. Gould's language is straightforward yet evocative, capturing the confusion and anger of the time eloquently.

Brief Summary

Refusal to Submit recounts Richard Gould's personal journey as he becomes embroiled in the Draft Resistance Movement during the Vietnam War. Through a series of personal letters, Gould narrates his process of deciding against accepting the draft, the subsequent legal battles he faces, and his imprisonment. As he navigates these personal challenges, he provides insight into the historical context and motivations behind his resistance, aiming to pass these lessons on to future activists and thinkers.