Super Short Summary

Novel Without a Name by Duong Thu Huong follows Quan, a young North Vietnamese soldier, who embarks on a physical and emotional journey through the war-torn countryside. Sent to find a childhood friend who has gone mad, Quan faces numerous challenges, including near-starvation, ideological confrontations, and personal loss. Throughout, he grapples with the harsh realities of warfare and his disillusionment with Marxism. The narrative is interspersed with italicized sections that delve into Quan’s thoughts and dreams. The book addresses themes of war, psychological trauma, and existential despair.