How our memory of war can shape the future

In *Nothing Ever Dies*, Viet Thanh Nguyen delves into the complex ways the Vietnam War has been remembered and forgotten, examining various cultural forms like novels, films, and monuments. He argues for a 'just memory' that acknowledges both humanity and inhumanity, advocating for peace and reconciliation. The book is a personal and philosophical exploration of war, identity, and memory.

Published in 1987, 'Beloved' is a work of historical fiction that delves into the aftermath of the American Civil War. The novel centers around Sethe, a Black woman who escaped from slavery in Kentucky and now lives in Ohio. However, her life is haunted by the ghost of her two-year-old daughter, whom she killed to prevent her from being taken back into slavery. The story is deeply intertwined with themes of mother-daughter relationships, the power of family and community, and the lasting impact of slavery on individuals and society. The novel introduces a mysterious figure named Beloved, who is the physical manifestation of Sethe's murdered daughter, and explores how this presence disrupts and ultimately transforms the lives of Sethe and her surviving daughter, Denver. Through a complex narrative that includes flashbacks, stream-of-consciousness monologues, and multiple voices, Morrison examines the trauma and resilience of those affected by slavery.