Themes in my Enemy in Vietnam

[CreatedbyGob]

I appreciated how the author didn't focus solely on a racism aspect but more of a how to overcome and adapt as well as finding support during a time that most would not.

[Cherybola]

I liked the friendship theme vibe of the book. Everyone needs someone to have in your corner through difficult times.

[Eva Nyaburi]

Apart from racism, there was also the theme of friendship and unity.

[Nwankwo GC]

The brotherhood spirit was a major theme for me. This was exhibited by the Vietnamese when they called a black soldier who they understood had an
experience similar to theirs (oppression) "soul brother".

[nwanasebuka]

Being black, fighting in a conflict you don't belong in, and learning the local language since it comes naturally to him all contribute to the main character's status as a true hero. I observed camaraderie, acceptance, and harmony, excluding racism. One of the reasons the author was accepted by the Vietnamese was because he spoke their language. There's also the bond that exists between Vietnamese and black troops.

[Mbenma Esther 080]

Aside from racism which is predominant in the book, there is the theme of friendship, acceptance, and companionship.

[Sharill Rasowo]

The theme of acceptance and love was interesting to read throughout the book. The protagonist found something in common with the Vietnamese and they accepted him I found this aspect of the book heartwarming.

[darkspadille]

I think a powerful theme in this book is friendship. This is especially necessary during times of war, which are phases of chaos and misery. Friendship, especially with the adversary, is a valuable asset to have.

[Siyamthanda03]

The narrative is quite well-written. When I first started reading the book, I was a little suspicious. I'm pleased I did, though. Not only did the author address prejudice and the horrible conflict between Vietnamese and soldiers of color, but I also enjoyed how he twisted the story to include togetherness and friendship among individuals of many skin colors. It was eye-opening for me to realize that we should always see people for who they are rather than how they appear.

[Peace Chux]

In spite of the racism, I found budding kinship that cut across skin colour and war sides. The spirit of friendship and togetherness which gave me hope that even in the deepest recesses of a man's heart, there is always that part capable of kindness and willing to connect.

[Ratii]

My first thought was racism, but I believe it is more widespread. This novel, in my opinion, portrays how impossible it is to be fully alone, and how, if we open our hearts and look beyond our noses, we can discover someone who will try their hardest to embrace and understand us. The Vietnamese people interrogating black soldiers about their intentions, as well as the fact that they are assisting white soldiers in doing to them what they have been doing to their people (black communities) for so long, is an eye-opening sequence in my opinion.

[Blessing Odii]

The theme that caught my attention is that of cultural differences and heritage. Secondly, the thing of love and acceptance.

[chinonye-nonye]

Other themes that are prevalent in "My Enemy in Vietnam" are friendship and acceptance. Clearly, the Vietnamese understood that there was some commonality between them and a black soldier such as being disliked and oppressed by others. They demonstrated that by calling him 'soul brother'.

I feel friendship was very much evident. The theme of identity discovery was also present. I also loved the author’s impression of the war. It was totally different from other stories I have read about vietnam war

[Eunice Geres]

War is a hard theme for me. Especially when racism is added to the mix of themes. But what I enjoyed reading here is the theme of friendship and companionship.

[Kehinde Hussein]

Racism is still one fight that will continue to linger on and if isn't curtailed would take a huge and devastating toll on the coming generation. I liked that there was friendship and companionship among the Vietnamese and black soldiers. It emphasizes on how much the world would be a better place and we would achieve being together without any discrimination of any sort.