Many people tend to ask the question to better understand someone: What would you bring on a deserted island? While reading The Things They Carried, by Tim O'Brien, a similar prompt arose: what would you bring to war?
Although the two questions have their similarities, war is quite the anthesis of an island. Cross, the main narrator, hopes to demonstrate to the reader the "weight" that falls on the soldiers. The things they carry are mostly technical or military equipment. However, it is the small things that are in their bags or wrapped around their bodies that lie close to their hearts. Even though the 28-pound mine detector might physically be the heaviest, the photo of a loved-one or the good luck charm from a daughter might mentally outweigh the rest.
So the question still remains: what would I bring to war? Through the troubling times, one would need something to keep himself or herself sane. Since it would be impossible to bring a piano, I would bring an iPod with a manually, rechargeable battery filled with classical as well as trendy music to soothe my mind. Along with that, I would keep a water-proof photo album filled with memories of friends and family from over the years. Finally, I would bring a water purifier in order to maintain my hydration and health.
Overall, the three things I would bring break down into three categories: something enjoyable that could boost morals, a sentimental item that could bring hope while faced with mental obstacles, and lastly, a gadget geared for survival. What would you bring?
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