Magic Realism In The Things They Carried By Tim O Brien

The postmodern techniques that were used throughout The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien were not intended to give insight on the war in Vietnam, but on the deeper meaning between each emphasized character. Differentiating the many techniques that were used in this novel, the element of magic realism was one of the most prominently used. Magic realism is seen throughout each of character’s personalities, description, background, and of course in the things they carried. Magic realism is signified as O’Brien states, “Until he was shot, Ted Lavender carried the starlight scope, which weighed 6.3 pounds with its aluminum carrying case. Henry Dobbins carried his girlfriend's pantyhose wrapped around his neck as a comforter. They all carried ghosts.” (1, 9) Especially when referring to the “ghosts” that all of the presumed men carry, O’Brien was caught with writing

Another example of this magic realism is seen in Lieutenant Jimmy Cross’ desire for the presence of Martha. In his description of Martha, he indicates that, “he wanted to sleep inside her lungs and breathe her blood and be smothered. He wanted her to be a virgin and not a virgin, all at once. He wanted to know her.” (1, 11) The slight visual imagery that used in this phrase signifies some of the utmost dreams that Lieutenant Cross has when regarding his thoughts about Martha. This relates to magic realism in the sense of Martha being a possible reason that drives Lieutenant Cross to survive and go home. Even though magic realism seen religiously in characters incorporated in this novel, so is the postmodernist element of paranoia. Paranoia is particularly identified in Lieutenant Cross’ substantial responsibility towards his squad. When Ted Lavender died, Cross felt that it was his fault as stated in this phrase, “He felt