The Veterans Who Become Novelists
Veterans often turn to fiction as a means of processing their experiences in war. Elliot Ackerman and Karl Marlantes discuss the connection between storytelling and the reintegration of veterans into society. Their reflections highlight the importance of literature in understanding the complexities of war and its aftermath.
- ▪Elliot Ackerman, a Marine Corps veteran, has served five tours in Iraq and Afghanistan before becoming a novelist.
- ▪Karl Marlantes published the acclaimed novel Matterhorn, which took him 35 years to write, reflecting on the Vietnam War.
- ▪The role of literature in reconciling the experiences of veterans has been a topic of discussion since the Vietnam War.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
The Veterans Who Become NovelistsVeteran Elliot Ackerman reflects on “the role stories play in reintegrating warriors back into the societies that sent them to war.” (UPI/Bettmann Archive via Getty Images)What draws so many veterans to fiction after war? Elliot Ackerman and fellow novelist Karl Marlantes reflect on storytelling, remembrance, and the search for meaning after combat.By Elliot Ackerman05.25.26FOLLOW COLUMN --:----:--Upgrade to ListenProduced by ElevenLabs using AI narration316ADVERTISEMENTEvery year on Memorial Day, the nation pauses to remember and mourn the millions who have lost their lives in the service of our country. This year, the meaning of the day is especially acute. War continues to rage in Iran, where at least 13 American service members have been killed.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Free Press (Substack).
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