The things they carried citation mla – The Things They Carried: An MLA Citation Guide provides a comprehensive overview of the correct MLA citation format for Tim O’Brien’s renowned short story, “The Things They Carried.”
This guide will equip readers with the necessary knowledge to accurately cite the story in academic papers, essays, and other written works.
Introduction
Tim O’Brien’s “The Things They Carried” is a collection of interconnected short stories that explore the experiences of American soldiers during the Vietnam War. The stories delve into the physical, emotional, and psychological burdens the soldiers carry, both during the war and in its aftermath.
The story has become a classic of American literature, renowned for its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of war.
Symbolism in the Story
The Physical Burdens
The items the soldiers carry represent the physical and emotional burdens they bear. The heavy packs they carry symbolize the weight of their responsibilities, while the letters and photographs they carry represent their connection to home and loved ones.
Animal Imagery
O’Brien also uses animal imagery to symbolize the soldiers’ inner struggles. The rats that infest the soldiers’ camp represent the fear and anxiety they feel, while the water buffalo represents the strength and resilience they must find to survive.
Characterization and Relationships
The Main Characters
The story features a cast of complex and flawed characters. Lieutenant Jimmy Cross, the platoon leader, is a young and idealistic officer who struggles to reconcile his desire for glory with the horrors of war. Rat Kiley, a medic, provides comic relief but also grapples with the guilt and trauma he has witnessed.
Relationships
The characters’ relationships are often strained and complex. The soldiers form bonds of camaraderie, but these bonds are tested by the stresses of war. Cross’s relationship with Martha, his girlfriend back home, is a source of both hope and heartbreak.
Narrative Structure and Style: The Things They Carried Citation Mla
Non-Linear Storytelling
O’Brien employs a non-linear narrative structure, shifting between different characters’ perspectives and time periods. This fragmented style reflects the chaotic and disorienting nature of war.
Vivid Language
O’Brien’s writing is known for its vivid and immersive language. He uses sensory details and evocative imagery to create a visceral experience for the reader.
Themes and Literary Devices
The Dehumanizing Effects of War, The things they carried citation mla
One of the central themes of the story is the dehumanizing effects of war. The soldiers are reduced to numbers and objects, and their humanity is stripped away.
Irony
O’Brien uses irony to highlight the absurdity and contradictions of war. For example, the soldiers carry letters from loved ones that express hope and optimism, while they are surrounded by death and destruction.
Flashbacks and Dream Sequences
O’Brien uses flashbacks and dream sequences to explore the soldiers’ inner lives and memories. These devices provide insight into their complex emotions and experiences.
Historical and Cultural Context
The Vietnam War
The story is set during the Vietnam War, a controversial and divisive conflict that deeply impacted American society. The war raised questions about the nature of war, the role of the military, and the limits of human endurance.
Social and Political Issues
The story reflects the social and political issues of the time, including the anti-war movement and the growing disillusionment with American foreign policy.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Critical Reception
Upon its publication in 1990, “The Things They Carried” received widespread critical acclaim. It was praised for its realism, its exploration of complex themes, and its powerful prose.
Legacy
The story has had a profound impact on American literature and popular culture. It has been adapted into a film and a stage play, and its themes and characters continue to resonate with readers today.
FAQ Insights
What is the correct MLA citation for “The Things They Carried”?
O’Brien, Tim. “The Things They Carried.” The Things They Carried, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1990, pp. 1-246.
How do I cite “The Things They Carried” in a parenthetical citation?
(O’Brien, 12)
Where can I find more information about MLA citation?
The MLA Style Manual and Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) are excellent resources for MLA citation guidelines.
