The Longer We Were There

Main Themes and Topics

The Longer We Were There by Steven Moore delves deep into the complexities of being a part-time soldier while straddling the line between civilian and military life. The book highlights the difficulty of conveying military experiences to those who have never served, portraying a divide that often exists not only between soldiers and civilians but within the soldiers themselves. This narrative is set against the backdrop of the Afghanistan War, focusing on the fragmented and often isolated experiences of soldiers. The urgency in telling stories during a wartime setting is palpable throughout the book, emphasizing the need for accountability and the struggle to communicate when context is often ambiguous or entirely absent.

Writing Style and Tone

Steven Moore writes with a tone that is both introspective and candid, offering readers a personal glimpse into the life of a National Guard soldier. His style is characterized by its honest representation of the multifaceted nature of soldiering, capturing both the mundane and the intense aspects of military life. The narrative flow reflects the sporadic and often disjointed nature of military service, moving seamlessly between anecdotes that sometimes feel isolated from the larger narrative, mirroring the isolated experiences of soldiers in a mountainous, foreign landscape.

Awards and Recognition

The Longer We Were There has been recognized for its unique perspective and storytelling approach, notably winning the 2018 AWP Award for Creative Nonfiction. This accolade speaks to the book's ability to resonate with readers and critics alike, offering a poignant and authentic account of military service and the internal and external conflicts it encompasses.

Brief Summary

The book follows the journey of a young soldier who enlists in the Iowa Army National Guard at the age of seventeen. Moore narrates his experiences over a span of seven years, detailing his oscillation between civilian life—encompassed by college classes and various jobs—and his commitment as a soldier, including a significant deployment in Afghanistan. Throughout this period, he navigates the challenges of conveying his military experiences to civilians, underscoring the internal division he feels as a result of living in two contrasting worlds. The narrative takes the reader from the Midwest to the remote valleys of Afghanistan, providing insights into the nature of modern-day soldiering and the impact of war on personal identity and perception.