Look for honesty and a lack of trying to make the story more heroic than it was. A true war story narrator might also show the harsh realities and not just the heroic moments.
A true war story narrator often presents raw and unfiltered details, sharing personal experiences without exaggeration or glorification.
One way to identify the narrator is by looking at whose perspective the events are being described from. If it's a character in the story sharing their experiences, that character could be the narrator.
The narrator in this story is complex and multi-dimensional. They present a raw and honest account of the events.
You can look for common elements like bravery, sacrifice, and the impact on individuals and society. Also, pay attention to the emotions and lessons conveyed.
The protagonist of a true war story is typically the person whose story arc shows the most growth, whose perspective we follow closely, and whose choices shape the course of events. You can also notice if they are the one that other characters seem to revolve around or be influenced by.
You can look for unexpected or contrary outcomes. Like when heroic actions lead to unintended consequences. Also, watch for contradictions in the characters' expectations and what actually happens.
Pay attention to their motivations and goals. Why they are in the war and what they hope to achieve can define their character. Additionally, their backstory and personal history can provide insights.
You can tell by looking at who's providing the main perspective. If it's an outside voice giving details and descriptions, it's likely a narrator. If it's from the viewpoint of one of the characters in the story, then it's a character-driven narration.
You can look for unexpected or absurd elements in the story. Dark humor often plays with irony and shock value.
A true war story in fiction often has detailed accounts of the battle conditions, and the characters' internal struggles. It avoids stereotypes and presents a multi-faceted view of the war. Also, it might touch on the long-term effects of the war on those involved.
In the realm of postmodernism, a true war story could incorporate elements of ambiguity and irony. It might play with the reader's expectations and make you think about the nature of truth and storytelling itself.