Twenty Bosses

Brief Summary

Twenty Bosses by Barney Hulett offers a heartfelt and raw examination of the experiences of veterans, particularly those who served in Vietnam. The book navigates the challenging journey of soldiers, highlighting the various obstacles they encounter during and after their service. Hulett also addresses the cultural and societal upheaval of the time, focusing on the counterculture movements that opposed military actions and the traditional American values they stood for. The narrative delves into the personal struggles of veterans who returned home only to face new battles in the form of post-traumatic stress disorder and societal alienation.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes in Twenty Bosses is the contrast between the valor of military service and the societal rejection experienced by veterans upon their return home. Hulett criticizes the counterculture movements of the era, attributing to them a cultural shift that undermined traditional values such as patriotism and respect for authority. The book deeply examines themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of returning to a domestic life that seems unrecognizable due to societal changes. The psychological impact of war and the challenges of integrating back into civilian life are also prominent topics, offering a somber reflection on the cost of service.

Writing Style and Tone

Barney Hulett's writing style in Twenty Bosses is direct and impassioned, characterized by a candid recounting of experiences and strong emotional undercurrents. The tone conveys a deep sense of commitment and frustration, as Hulett voices concerns about the societal changes and the treatment of veterans. His narrative is powerful and unfiltered, drawing readers into the psychological and emotional realm of those who have served in war. The prose is accessible yet evocative, engaging readers with its heartfelt and forthright depiction of a veteran's perspective.

Criticism

While Twenty Bosses is a compelling and passionate exploration of a veteran's journey, some readers might critique Hulett's strong stance on counterculture movements as being overly one-sided. The book's focus on condemning these movements may overshadow other nuanced perspectives on the time period, potentially alienating readers who hold different views on the era's complex social dynamics. Additionally, the intense focus on the negative aspects of the cultural shifts might be seen as lacking a broader acknowledgment of the diverse debates and dialogues that characterized the time.