Well Done, Those Men

Brief Summary

Well Done, Those Men by Barry Heard is an intensely personal narrative that details the author's journey as a conscripted soldier in the Vietnam War and the subsequent struggles he faced upon returning home. Heard offers a frank account of his life, providing insight into the emotional and psychological turmoil experienced by him and his comrades. The book portrays the stark reality of returning to a society that was unprepared to accept or understand Vietnam veterans, and how this alienation led to a personal breakdown that Heard had to work through to reclaim his life.

Main Themes and Topics

The book delves into several central themes, including the devastating impact of war on mental health and the struggle of returning to civilian life after experiencing intense trauma. It touches on themes of camaraderie among soldiers, the absurdities of military life, and the harsh reality of being a veteran in a society that shuns returning soldiers. Another critical theme is the journey toward healing and reclaiming one's life amidst ongoing battles with trauma and depression.

Writing Style and Tone

Barry Heard's writing is marked by its vivid honesty and emotional depth. He employs a straightforward and unflinching narrative style that draws readers into the experience of being a soldier during the Vietnam War and the subsequent challenges faced during the transition back to civilian life. The tone varies from reflective and somber when discussing personal and collective trauma to humorous and absurd when recounting military training experiences. This blend of tones effectively captures the complexities of the experiences described.

Awards and Recognition

Well Done, Those Men has been acknowledged for its candid exploration of a challenging topic and its contribution to the narrative surrounding Vietnam veterans. The book has received acclaim for its honest portrayal of the psychological scars left by war and the difficult journey toward healing and acceptance.

Criticism

While the book has been praised for its raw honesty and vivid narrative, some readers might find the unvarnished recounting of trauma and personal struggle to be intense and, at times, overwhelming. The book's structure, weaving between past and present, may also challenge readers seeking a more linear narrative. Nonetheless, these elements are integral to conveying the complexity of the author's experiences.