Background of the author
Class Discussion Questions:
1. What is significant about the repeated use of "would" in the story "Speaking of Courage"? How does this word capture the feelings of the narrator about Norman and his problem?
2. Why couldn't the town talk, and why wouldn't the town listen? Whom does Norman tell his story?
3. What is the fine distinction that Norman would have made, if there were anyone to listen?
4. In "Notes," what fine line does Tim O'Brien draw to help explain the purpose of storytelling for him?
5. What is wrong with the original version of "Speaking of Courage"? Why does O'Brien say that HE is the one who almost won the Silver Star for valor, not Norman?
