Analysis

In this chapter, Hillenbrand focuses her authorial role as journalist and historian by documenting the postwar lives of former POWs in America. The recitations of facts here serve as more evidence of her strict insistence on retelling the true story of Louie Zamperini’s life and on her desire to use Louie’s story to cast light on the broader history of the WWII era.

Louie, meanwhile, falls deeper into a tormented state that’s fueled by flashbacks, nightmares, alcohol, and an obsession with gaining revenge. Once again, emotionally and spiritually, he’s a lost soul trying to find his way to freedom.