Going After Cacciato (vol. I)

In his work, Going After Cacciato, Tim O’Brien explores the issue of fear and heroism in the character of Paul Berlin. O’Brien writes, “The real issue was the power of will to defeat fear. A matter of figuring a way to do it. Somehow working his way into that secret chamber of the human heart…for the exercise of courage” (81). Throughout the novel, Berlin struggles against the paralyzing force of fear. In the midst of battle, fear rises to place a strangle hold upon the helpless Spec Four. As a result, Berlin collapses into himself in a futile attempt to escape the fear. Berlin counts, focuses on an imaginary marble, pretends to be home…he does everything but confront his fear. Berlin’s inability to deal with the realities of war turn him into a runaway of the mind. He flees the harsh times of marching, the long hours of the observation post, and the problems between soldiers by escaping into his imagination. Perhaps in many respects Berlin may be looked upon as a coward who cannot face life with courage. But perhaps Berlin escapes into illusion as a defense mechanism, as a way to save something which the war attempts to take. As a safe guard against becoming cold, hopeless, and without sympathy, Berlin daydreams. But in his attempts to save his soul he never finds what he truly needs: the courage to face life in war and keep moving forward.