Prompt:
Nietzsche suggests that the truth is merely an agreed upon lie. Using Nietzsche’s “On Truth and Lies…” apply this approach to O’Brien’s The Things They Carried (the book — not just the chapter with this title).
In particular, examine O’Brien’s approach to telling a true war story (not just the chapter with this title). If, as O’Brien claims, telling such a story may be impossible, what is he doing in The Things They Carried? How does O’Brien play with the conventions of ‘true’ to accomplish this? To what extent can Nietzsche’s understanding of truth be applied to an analysis of O’Brien’s approach?
Attention should be paid both to what O’Brien may be trying to convey through his writing and the techniques of writing he uses to convey this. Use specific examples from The Things They Carried to make your case. Do not forget to use Nietzsche.
Grading Rubric
You will be graded on:
• how well you address the prompt (within the 3 page limit);
• how well you establish and introduce the point you wish to make;
• how well you work with the texts (citing specific passages, drawing parallels, referring to the language of the text and not simply the narrative);
• how strong your conclusion is: whether you identify the key points demonstrated by your analysis
• how well and how clearly you express yourself and articulate your ideas throughout
• how carefully you have prepared the text (e.g. spelling, punctuation, proper referencing)