we will never know

What happened to Kathleen Wade? Unfortunately, we will never know. Now, at first, I was upset that we would never really find out what happened to Kathy-or what happened to John for that matter- but by the end of the book, I liked that aspect. I liked that we, as readers, were able to decide for ourselves what we think happened. I'm not sure what I believe. Did John kill her? I think that is a HUGE possibility. I mean, the Rasmussen's say it all the time, "he didn't kill her; he was crazy about her," but, to me, it's not about his love for her. John Wade was obviously more than a little disturbed and traumatized. There is no doubt in my mind that he deeply cared for Kathy. Loved her? Sure. So, if he did kill her, I'm pretty sure he would not even remember. Or, being the great sorcerer that he is, he would just block it out.

"Is this another one of your tricks, Gob?"
"Not my trick, Michael.....my ILLUSION."

So, despite all the language and the weirdness, I ended up liking this book.

Weird

So
1. This book is much weirder than the other one I read by O'Brien. However, despite the obviously strange themes, I still think O'Brien is a grrrreat writer. I mean, Wade is crazy and, well, traumatized severely, but O'Brien makes me want to keep reading.

2. I am kind of annoyed that we might never figure out what happened to his wife. That kind of bugs me.

3. Sorry about the language. Wow, sorry.

4. So I like it. It's weird, but it makes you think. Going through a traumatic experience is life-changing. It changes not only who you are, but how you think and how you view and experience the world. But I think Wade's problems began long before Vietnam, when his dad hung himself. That would definitely change things to say the least. I feel bad for him. He loves his wife to an almost dangerous level, but he has this underlying need for approval and validation that takes him to the edge of sanity. What a scary way to live your life.