1 What could the border symbolize for O’Brien? 2 How does the story O’Brien constructs express his feelings and internal conflict more effectively than a factual retelling of events would?

3 Elroy Berdahl is not real. What, then, could he represent? Near the end of the story, O’Brien notes how he had a feeling that Elroy wouldn’t be back. Figuratively, what could this mean?

4 How does O’Brien dispel romantic notions of war, heroism, and patriotism through this story?

5 Water is an archetype that often represents birth or rebirth, such as in baptisms (spiritual rebirth). The wilderness is another archetype often representing a difficult or trying time, sometimes when a character is unsure of themselves and their purpose. How do these archetypes fit into this story? How do they contribute to O’Brien’s purpose?