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‘The Two Souls Indivisible’ Book Report
This novel is by James Hirsh and it is extremely interesting as well as informative. The scene where the novel is set is in Vietnam, when it was experiencing war. Those held captives due to the war, are not able to enjoy any sort of freedom. This is because basic needs, which are accorded to human beings, are nothing but fantasies to the prisoners. For eight years, two friends, Fred Cherry and Porter Halyburton lived under extreme conditions, which were barbaric. The two worked in the military whereby, one was a pilot in the air force, while the other a pilot in the navy. The life of these two friends is what leads James to write this novel based on their terrifying experiences, while serving at Vietnam.
Through reading this great novel, one knows about the conditions of the Vietnamese prisons. During the war, service men serving in the United States military were held captive in the various prisons. Most times the prisoners were held in confinement, showering was unheard of, making one to sympathize with the prisoners. Eight years was an extremely long time and some became sick and died due to the conditions they were subjected to. For example, anesthetics were not used when the prisoners were being operated on, making the experience extremely painful. This is the reason why this novel creates a sense of suspense and intrigue to its readers.
While studying history, many questions are raised concerning the Vietnam War, regarding the reason why America was involved .Also; it raises questions, such as why the war started as well the exact time when this war took place. There is a lot, which needs to be known, concerning this war, as people ought to be aware about the consequences of war. This novel enables one to know the challenges faced by the POW’s of the United States. Without the close relationship between the two POWS’s, the hardships would have made them loose their lives. Since it is based on a true story, it makes it even more amazing to the point whereby, one is affected emotionally. Some people who have read this great novel have cried due to its appeal, which is emotional.
This novel is accurate in terms of its historical context. The horrors, which are associated with war, are made known and how they can lead to various psychological problems. The relationship between Cherry and Haleyburton is interesting and the bond they have is quite strong. Cherry is the one, who was affected most, by the inhuman conditions, which was caused by the war. Compared to his friend, he is the one who underwent most of the torture. On the other hand, Haleyburton can be viewed as a person, who is racist. But as you continue reading you find out that he was in fact against racism. He was compassionate, servitude, as well as humble, which he constantly practiced despite the many hardships. Haleyburton believed in the power of God, thus his faith, which made him endure the torture.
During the war, many people united, because they were fighting for the same purpose. Race differences were not a hindrance due to the bond shared. This gives a clear definition on life and what it is meant to be. The history and past of the people is made known and this connection is vital. This shows that Hirsch was interested in ensuring that readers have an idea of the war in Vietnam. Also, while the war took place, the activity of the soldier’s families is known. A lot of emotional and physical torture of the prisoners took place and this was conducted by the Vietnamese people from the North. In the year 1965, in the month of October at Hanoi, Cherry was shot and severely wounded. The reason why this took place was to ensure that statements of anti-war were signed by Cherry. Unfortunately the efforts of the captors to make sure he coerces was unsuccessful. Most of the servicemen, who were black, were being urged to stop fighting. This is because they were viewed as the most venerable group in the war in Vietnam. Halyburton’s support is what ensured that Cherry survived through the ordeal, which was horrifying.
The reason why the Cherry and Halyburton were put in the same cell was to ensure that they became enemies. The irony is that instead, they became great friends. The good nature of Halyburton is seen as he tries to ensure that his friend is well taken care off. This shows that during the war, people were still humane to each other. For the eight months they were in confinement, Halyburton made it his duty to ensure that Cherry was able to stay alive. This makes Halyburton a life saver, who ought to be praised for his good deeds. The novel is based on ideals of dedication and friendship, which took place during this vital historical occurrence.
Despite the horrific war, one of the greatest friendships in the world was formed. This is because the two POW’s were from different worlds yet they formed a tight bond. During that period, there was segregation and racism was extremely thrift. Halyburton was from the south where most white people were racists and Cherry was a black man. Such friendships were unheard of and since they were fighting in war, there friendship became strong. The two made sure that they survived by overcoming the suspicions, which they had.
Among the POW’s in the war in Vietnam, Cherry and Halyburton are viewed as legends. This is because they overcome the torture they were subjected, to become great friends. Their families were also affected as it took a toll on their lives despite them being far away. Absence made the family of cherry became sundered. This is different from that of a deepened and endured bond between Marty and Halyburton. Marty was the latter’s wife, who was affected by the supposed death of her husband. Later, her emotions change when she learns that Halyburton was imprisoned, thus alive. This makes her become fearful as his life is in danger. The families who were left behind by the POW’s did not do anything much to advocate for those fighting in the war to come back home.
The novel is heartbreaking as well as inspiring. It is possible to overcome death by trusting other people, who have the will power for survival. Situations of war can make people achieve success for the benefit of others. This is an interesting novel for those who want to find out about the war in Vietnam. Great lessons are learnt from this novel and it should be recommended to those interested in the United States history.
