Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Tim O'Brien is an American author known for his works of fiction and non-fiction, particularly those centered around the Vietnam War. His writing often explores themes of war, memory, and the power of storytelling.
Related terms
"Going After Cacciato": Another novel by Tim O'Brien that follows the story of a soldier who decides to walk away from the war in Vietnam.
War Literature: A genre of literature that focuses on narratives related to war, including both fictional and non-fictional accounts.
Moral Ambiguity: A recurring theme in Tim O'Brien's works where characters face difficult choices with no clear right or wrong answers. It explores the complexities of human morality in wartime situations.