The consequences and effects of war can be psychological, physical or emotional. May affect directly, for example, a soldier or indirectly, for example, the parents and friends of that soldier. “The Things They Carried” and “The Red Convertible” examine these questions. “The Things They Carried examines the psychological, physical, or emotional aspect of the destruction wrought by the Vietnam War. While “The Red Cabriolet” focuses on the psychological pressure suffered by soldiers after the war as well as their families. These stories raise the question of whether war is really necessary and whether a soldier can retire from service. Both stories are coming-of-age stories or coming-of-age stories. These aspects are the most effective when analyzing this work. Articles can delve deeper into the issues and questions at hand. The emphasis on characterization, point of view, symbolism or imagery, and the meaning of the title all help to support the theme of these works and develop thoughts and opinions about the issues in the story. In “The Things They Carried,” the point of view manipulates the reader by being limited to a third person. Two not being able to give all the details of the events or the other characters' perspective on the events. On the other hand, the narrator does a good job of providing insight into the other characters' thoughts. The narrator also gives many details about the events that occur. Even though the narrator gives the reader a detailed overview of the play, there should be more other characters to get the big picture and the whole story. Other characters may have more information about the occurrences in the play. With this insight, it can also help the reader think more about the story and the concerns within the story. For the reasons it is... middle of paper ... and hurts the soldiers but murders their minds. War hurts families and destroys lives. Both stories showed how the boys found themselves in terrible situations in the face of war. Both stories were indicative of the harsh reality of war. They give the reader a view of the war. The pieces are filled with visuals and symbolism. I recommend to all readers. Has a real message in both works. Works Cited Erdich, Louise “The Red Convertible” 1984. Schalfel and Ridl 126 – 133. Schakel, Pete and Jack Ridl. Ed. Approaching literature Reading + Thinking + Writing. 3rd ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin, 2011. Sprint. O Brian, Tim “The Things They Carried” 1986. Schakel. Ridl. 493- 506 Korb, Rena “The things they carried”. Short stories for students. Detriot: Gale, 2002. Documentary Resource Center. Internet. October 2. 2014