In Country

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2, Chapters 1-10

Part 2, Chapters 11-20

Part 2, Chapters 21-30

Part 3

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Mason tells most of the novel through the technique of flashback, framed by the present tense story of Sam, Emmett, and Mamaw journeying to the Vietnam War Memorial. In what ways does this authorial choice serve the narrative?

The design of the Vietnam War Memorial by architect Maya Lin caused a great deal of controversy among veterans’ groups and the general public. What were the main arguments for and against the design of the Vietnam War Memorial? How do they relate to the memorial’s representation in the text?

What is the significance of the title In Country? How does it relate to each of the character's development in the aftermath of the Vietnam War?