CLOSE QUARTERS by Larry Heinemann

Close Quarters offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the life of a soldier during the Vietnam War. The book captures the essence of the war through the eyes of those who lived it, providing a poignant and terrifying account that resonates with both historical significance and emotional depth. /n/n Through vivid storytelling and personal anecdotes, the narrative delves into the psychological and physical challenges faced by soldiers, offering a unique perspective on the human experience amidst the chaos of war. This memoir is not just a chronicle of events but a testament to the resilience and vulnerability of the human spirit.

Reviews

The Storygraph · ericwelch · 2025-12-20

gripping 4.50

This is not a book for the faint-hearted, with graphic violence and strong language, but it's a gripping and honest portrayal of war.

If you're looking for a book that pulls no punches, this is it. The graphic violence, strong language, and raw portrayal of war make it a challenging read, but it's also what makes the book so powerful. The author's honest and unflinching depiction of the Vietnam War creates a narrative that is both gripping and deeply moving. It's a book that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of war, making it a must-read for those interested in war literature. The writing is intense and visceral, which can be difficult to read but is ultimately what makes the book so impactful. The reviewer, ericwelch, highlights the book's ability to convey the brutality of war in a way that is both honest and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

This is not a book for the faint-hearted.

If you don't like graphic violence, the f-word, and ethnic slurs, lots of brutal and mind-numbing sex, you should not read this book.

The author's honest and unflinching depiction of the Vietnam War creates a narrative that is both gripping and deeply moving.

The Longest Chapter · 2020-01-16

powerful 4.00

The book's portrayal of Vietnam War experiences is both powerful and controversial. It stays with the reader long after finishing.

This novel delves deep into the brutal realities of the Vietnam War, making it a challenging but unforgettable read. The author's personal experiences shine through, creating a vivid and sometimes harrowing narrative. It's a book that sparks discussion and reflection, even decades after its publication. The controversial nature of the story is part of what makes it so compelling, as it forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about war and humanity. The writing is raw and unflinching, which can be difficult to read but is ultimately what makes the book so impactful.

Quick quotes

Larry Heinemann won the 1987 National Book Award for fiction. It was a controversial upset.

Here's why his story has stayed with me all these years.

The book's portrayal of Vietnam War experiences is both powerful and controversial.

The New York Times · 1977-07-18

thought-provoking 3.50

The novel confronts the evil within man and the horrors of war through surreal and hallucinatory imagery.

This book is a stark exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and the brutalities of war. The use of surreal and hallucinatory imagery adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking read. The author's ability to delve into the psychological and emotional toll of war sets this novel apart from others in the genre. It's a book that challenges readers to think deeply about the nature of evil and the impact of war on the human psyche. The writing is evocative and unsettling, which can be both disturbing and enlightening.

Quick quotes

Mr. Heinemann seeks, think, to confront the evil within man, as well as the evil of war; his vision throws up surreal images, hallucinations.

The novel is a stark exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and the brutalities of war.

The use of surreal and hallucinatory imagery adds a layer of complexity to the narrative.

Appears in Lists

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