Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsSquatting in the bush
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 18 June 2017
Mr Herr published almost nothing before or after this book other than some screenplay work for Apocalypse Now and Full Metal Jacket. Quite how a journalist from Esquire magazine manages to be helicoptering around a major war zone is yet another oddity of the Vietnam War.
It is easy to understand some of the mixed reviews as the book seems to have three sections that may appeal to readers approaching it with different expectations. The early part is a visceral, breathless, cathartic outpouring of memory. At times it is almost painful to read. This stream then gives way to short declarative, provocative statements, take it or leave it, this is the way it was, I was there I know.
The book then changes pace into a second section which is less frenetic and essentially a narrative account of the 'siege' of Khe Sanh at the time of the 1968 Tet Offensive. This account is apt if you prefer 'accounts' or 'histories' of this war. It continues into a final section which is a mixture of anecdotes (horrific and humorous) and a heartfelt discussion of the role of journalists and photo-journalists.
Mr Herr's account covers 1967 to 1969. He was in the hard-core who believed in finding out the truth for himself rather than reliance on official briefings. He shows personal courage but it was an experience that deeply affected him. Depicting the front-line experience of deadly street battles in Hue, I never felt I'd got to the bottom of exactly why Mr Herr wanted to be right there. Although I'm sure he feels he told me.