This gripping book takes the reader to war with a young marine officer on his first combat tour.
I've read that the writing process took decades after Marlantes went to Vietnam. I believe it. The book introduces you to boredom and blood, body horror (leeches and rot) racial tension, beauracratic indifference and incompetence, theft and corruption, loyalty and courage, survivors guilt and more.
The writing ranges from brutal and direct to philosophical and empathetic. If you have ever wanted to recommend catch 22 to someone but want a more straightforward story, Matterhorn would be a good choice.
It's a well crafted story about flawed humans caught in complex structures, doing violence. I will probably revisit it, but not soon.
If any of you have read it, what are your thoughts?
by boxer_dogs_dance
1 Comment
That’s a terrific book. I gave it to my grandfather who himself received a bronze star for his actions in Vietnam. He said it pretty well summed up what it felt like over there.
Marlantes has some other books. Deep River is also a really enjoyable read. I have a copy of Cold Victory but haven’t started into it yet.