Answer: In "The Things They Carried," Tim O'Brien develops the theme of the burdens of war by including long lists of the physical and emotional items carried by the soldiers. These lists emphasize the weight and significance of what the soldiers carry, both literally and metaphorically.
One piece of evidence to support this argument is the list of items carried by Lieutenant Cross, which includes not only weapons and ammunition but also personal items such as letters and photographs. The inclusion of these personal items highlights the emotional burden of war and the importance of individual relationships and connections.
Another example of the theme is the detailed list of items carried by Ted Lavender, who is killed in action. This list includes tranquilizers, marijuana, and other drugs, indicating the soldiers' need to numb themselves emotionally in order to cope with the horrors of war.
The use of long lists of items also serves to emphasize the physical weight of what the soldiers carry, such as the heavy packs and weapons. Through these lists, O'Brien conveys the physical and emotional toll of war on the soldiers, as well as the weight of their responsibilities and the constant danger they face.
In conclusion, the long lists of items carried by the soldiers in "The Things They Carried" serve as a powerful literary device to emphasize the theme of the burdens of war. By including both physical and emotional items, O'Brien highlights the weight and significance of what the soldiers carry, both literally and metaphorically, and underscores the personal and emotional toll of war.
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