Author Tim O’Brien is quoted as saying “Fiction is the lie that helps us understand the truth.” Upon reading The Things They Carried, reflect on how each story contributes individually to the truth O’Brien is trying to reveal about the world and humanity. Then, craft a thesis statement that articulates what, exactly, O’Brien believes this truth to be. Finally, create a well-developed tier list that ranks each story’s usefulness in understanding this truth about the world and humanity.