People of the Whale

Thomas reflects on his complex experiences during the Vietnam War and the aftermath. He recalls the stark contrast between the tranquil scenes of rural Vietnam, like women drying rice on a road, and the realities of war. These memories are intertwined with his current life at Witka’s house by the ocean, where the sounds of water continuously remind him of his past.

Thomas’s recollections reveal the deep impact of his war experiences, from witnessing the resilience of the Vietnamese people to feeling haunted by his actions and the broader consequences of the conflict. He remembers an old Vietnamese woman offering him compassion, triggering an emotional response despite his hardened exterior.

Thomas also reflects on the complicated nature of survival in a war-torn landscape. His thoughts frequently return to his time in a makeshift village, where he lived among people who had also been deeply affected by the conflict. He feels a kinship with them, recognizing their shared experiences of loss and endurance.

Thomas grapples with the duality of his identity—both as a soldier and as a person connected to his native roots. He is haunted by his past and struggles with feelings of guilt, betrayal, and loss.