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1. Essay Comparing the Image of Soldiers in the Poems 'Đồng chí' and 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính' No. 4
The topic of soldiers is a fertile ground explored by many poets and writers, leading to numerous captivating and unique works. The image of soldiers, depicted through the pen of each writer, presents distinct features, with Chính Hữu and Phạm Tiến Duật contributing to this theme with their two representative works— the poem 'Đồng chí' and the poem 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính'. The soldier imagery in both poems shares certain similarities, but also highlights some differences.
Initially, it is evident that the soldier image in both poems reflects admirable qualities and virtues. In both works, the soldiers are depicted as strong-willed individuals, undeterred by hardships and ready to overcome all obstacles with willpower, belief, and optimism. Reading 'Đồng chí' by Chính Hữu, one cannot forget the lines:
Anh với tôi biết từng cơn ớn lạnh
Sốt run người vầng trán ướt mồ hôi
Áo anh rách vai
Quần tôi có vài mảnh vá
Miệng cười buốt giá
Chân không giày.
Through vivid and realistic images, Chính Hữu captures the struggles, deprivations, and difficulties the soldiers endured during the nation's prolonged resistance war. These include the fever and chills of malaria, the lack of material resources— 'torn shirts', 'patched pants', and 'bare feet'. Yet, these challenges do not shake their resolve. The image of 'frozen smiles' conveys their optimism, willpower, and strength. Similarly, the poem 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính' by Phạm Tiến Duật also portrays this resilience among the soldiers:
Không có kính ừ thì có bụi
Bụi phun tóc trắng như người già
Chưa cần rửa, phì phèo châm điếu thuốc
Nhìn nhau mặt lấm cười ha ha
Không có kính ừ thì ướt áo
Mưa tuôn, mưa xối như ngoài trời
Chưa cần thay, lái trăm cây số nữa
Mưa ngừng, gió lùa mau khô thôi.
On the battlefront along the Trường Sơn trail, amidst the rain of bombs and the dangers, the soldiers driving trucks persist in their efforts to overcome all challenges. The imagery of 'dust' and 'rain' not only describes the harsh conditions but also serves as symbols of the difficulties the soldiers face as they march towards battle. However, these difficulties are overcome through the repeated use of phrases like 'No glasses, then there's dust', 'Not yet changed, driving hundreds of kilometers more', and through authentic images such as 'lighting a cigarette', 'laughing with faces smeared with dirt', showcasing the soldiers' optimism and spirit.
Moreover, the bond of comradeship among the soldiers in both poems is portrayed as strong, deep, and unbreakable. In 'Đồng chí', the camaraderie is beautifully expressed throughout the poem. Here, the soldiers understand each other's struggles, sharing their burdens:
Quê hương anh nước mặn, đồng chua
Làng tôi nghèo đất cày lên sỏi đá
Anh với tôi đôi người xa lạ
Tự phương trời chẳng hẹn quen nhau.
Súng bên súng, đầu sát bên đầu
Đêm rét chung chăn thành đôi tri kỷ
Đồng chí!
Ruộng nương anh gửi bạn thân cày
Gian nhà không mặc kệ gió lung lay
Giếng nước gốc đa nhớ người ra lính.
These soldiers come from different rural regions but are united by a common cause— to answer the sacred call of the nation, share the same ideals, and become comrades. They understand each other's background, goals, and their deep love for the homeland. Despite enduring immense hardships and suffering in a hostile battlefield, the sacred bond of comradeship shines through in the line 'Hands clasped, we hold each other’s hands'.
The image of 'hands clasped' symbolizes the strength of their friendship and the warmth of mutual support— passing on encouragement and faith to fight and triumph. In 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính' by Phạm Tiến Duật, a similar spirit of comradeship is vividly illustrated:
Những chiếc xe từ trong bom rơi
Đã về đây họp thành tiểu đội
Gặp bạn bè suốt dọc đường đi tới
Bắt tay nhau qua cửa kính vỡ rồi
On the treacherous journey to battle, in the blink of an eye, the soldiers meet through shattered windows, offering warm handshakes that convey trust, strength, and the will to continue despite the hardships.
Furthermore, both poems depict soldiers as proactive and ready to fight. In 'Đồng chí', one unforgettable line appears:
Đứng cạnh bên nhau chờ giặc tới
Đầu súng trăng treo
Amidst the natural scenery of the mountain wilderness, in the cold of the night, the soldiers stand firm, 'waiting for the enemy', undaunted and resolute.
Likewise, the brave posture of the soldiers in 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính' is clearly highlighted:
Không có kính không phải vì xe không có kính
Bom giật bom rung kính vỡ đi rồi
Ung dung buồng lái ta ngồi
Nhìn đất, nhìn trời, nhìn thẳng
Nhìn thấy gió vào xoa mắt đắng
Thấy con đường chạy thẳng vào tim
Thấy sao trời và đột ngột cánh chim
Như sa, như ùa vào buồng lái
Despite bombs shattering the truck windows, the soldiers remain 'calm' and 'steady' in their task, facing the journey ahead with unwavering determination. The use of repeated phrases such as 'looking at the land', 'looking at the sky', 'looking straight' emphasizes their readiness to confront anything and keep moving forward.
Thus, the image of the soldier in both poems presents common characteristics of courage and resilience, but also distinct differences. The main difference lies in their origins: the soldiers in 'Đồng chí' are from rural farming communities, while the soldiers in 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính' are urban youths, educated and youthful. Furthermore, the soldier imagery in 'Đồng chí' is more straightforward and rustic, while in 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính', it’s youthful, playful, and spontaneous.
Overall, the soldier imagery in both poems showcases shared qualities but also differences shaped by the unique contexts and times in which these works were created. 'Đồng chí' was written in 1948, during the early stages of the resistance against France, while 'Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính' was written in 1969, amidst the fierce and brutal years of the resistance against the US. Both works, however, enrich the theme of soldiers in literature.
2. Essay comparing the image of the soldier in the two poems "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" number 5
Both Chính Hữu and Phạm Tiến Duật are military poets who grew up during wars defending the Fatherland. They lived, experienced, and deeply understood the lives of soldiers on the battlefield. In their hands, they wielded not only weapons to fight the enemy but also crafted beautiful poems about soldiers. Two of these poems are "Đồng chí" by Chính Hữu and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" by Phạm Tiến Duật. Both poems depict soldiers in the Vietnam People's Army, and while they share many similarities, each has its own unique beauty.
"Đồng chí" by Chính Hữu was written in 1948, during the early years of the resistance against French colonialism when the young Vietnamese government was still forming. The soldiers in "Đồng chí" are those fighting against the French, having joined the resistance from the humble life of farmers, coming from poor rural areas:
Quê hương anh nước mặn đồng chua
Làng tôi nghèo đất cày lên sói đá
Meanwhile, "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" by Phạm Tiến Duật was written in 1969, at the height of the struggle during the American War. The soldiers of this period were much younger, many of whom had just left school and were full of youthful energy. These soldiers were:
Xé lối Trường Sơn đi đánh Mĩ
Mà lòng phơi phới dậy tương lai
The differing circumstances led to variations in the revolutionary awareness of the soldiers in each poem. The soldiers in "Đồng chí" had a simple understanding of war, while those in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" had a more sophisticated, developed awareness. In "Đồng chí", the most sacred emotion expressed is camaraderie, while in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", the focus shifts toward the idea of patriotism and will:
"Xe vẫn chạy vì miền Nam phía trước"
"Chỉ cần trong xe có một trái tim"
Living in the midst of battle with a sacred camaraderie, the soldiers in "Đồng chí" remember their families, including their elderly mothers, wives, and children. The soldiers in the American War, however, had a different mindset. They understood that the struggle was long and difficult. Thus, the truck and the road to the frontlines became their shared home, and their comrades were their family:
"Bếp Hoàng Cầm ta dựng giữa trời"
"Chung bát đũa nghĩa là gia đình đấy"
The main difference between the two poems lies in the poets' respective styles. Chính Hữu uses a realistic-romantic style to portray the soldiers in the early days of the resistance, facing many hardships:
"Áo anh rách vai Quần tôi có vài mánh vá"
"Miệng cười buốt giá Chân không giày"
The romantic inspiration is seen in the portrayal of the sacred friendship between comrades, with vivid images such as "the moon hanging from the end of the rifle". "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", on the other hand, employs a romantic-realistic style, not shying away from difficulties:
"Không có kính rồi xe không có đèn"
"Không có mui xe thùng xe có xước"
But above all, the soldiers' youthful rebellious spirit shines through, as they remain optimistic and carefree despite the hardships:
"Ung dung buồng lái ta ngồi"
"Nhìn đất nhìn trời nhìn thắng"
"Ừ thì gió bụi" "Ừ thì ướt áo",...
It can be said that in "Đồng chí", Chính Hữu creates the image of a soldier with sacred camaraderie, sharing the hardships of the resistance. In "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", Phạm Tiến Duật portrays a youthful, carefree, optimistic, and dream-filled soldier in the American War.
Despite the historical differences, the soldiers in both poems share common, admirable traits. They are devoted to their country, comrades, and fellow soldiers.
Answering the call of the homeland, they leave behind "the riverside roots" and their homes, including their loved ones. In the midst of extremely difficult conditions, their fighting spirit rises, filling them with determination. They face danger and difficulty without hesitation, holding their guns firmly to defend the homeland and their people:
"Súng bên súng đầu sát bên đầu"
"Xe vẫn chạy vì miền Nam phía trước"
"Chỉ cần trong xe có một trái tim"
They stand side by side with their comrades, fighting courageously. While in "Đồng chí", the image is of comrades holding hands, in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", this image becomes more familiar: "Handshakes through broken windows".
Despite the hardships, they accept and remain cheerful, optimistic, and full of love for life. This handshake symbolizes a sacred camaraderie, passing on trust, love, and bravery to one another. Life and death seem irrelevant to these soldiers, as they live to fight without fear of the consequences.
Although there are clear similarities and differences between the two poems, this only serves to portray the soldiers of Hồ Chí Minh in many different facets, making them more vivid and relatable. This deepens the reader's understanding of these soldiers, who represent the nation's spirit and aspirations. In them, readers find a profound and sacred light of patriotism and heroism. Moreover, the differences between the poems highlight the unique style of each poet, enriching and beautifying the art of our nation's literature.
3. An essay comparing the image of soldiers in the two poems "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" number 6
Poetry originates from life itself, and perhaps because of this, each poem resonates deeply with the emotions of its readers, listeners, and the poet's own soul. This is especially true for poems that feature soldiers from the two major wars of resistance—against the French and the Americans—which further deepen our love for the courageous battles of our people. However, the image of the soldier differs between each period, with poems from each era depicting distinct soldiers, such as the poem "Comrade" by Chinh Huu and "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" by Pham Tien Duat.
The first difference lies in the context of their battles and backgrounds. The verses of "Comrade" were written by Chinh Huu in May 1948, during the early years of the French colonialists’ return to invade Vietnam after the August Revolution. The situation was extremely harsh, especially in the wartime areas where resources were scarce. Realizing the suffering of the nation, poor farmers from all corners of the country left their fields, "the wells and banyan trees," to answer the sacred call of the Fatherland.
"Your homeland is saltwater, sour fields,
My village is poor, the land is rocky and barren."
In contrast, Pham Tien Duat, a young poet from the anti-American resistance period, wrote "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" in May 1969. This period marked the height of the fierce war. The soldiers of the Liberation Army, still very young, marched into battle, their youthful spirits burning bright. These heroes, "dividing the Truong Son mountain range to save the country," had no regard for the future waiting for them; their feet were firmly planted at the frontlines because of the sacred duty of patriotism.
Because of their different circumstances and backgrounds, their ideals and awareness of the war were also distinct. In "Comrade," the soldiers’ understanding of the war was simple and not yet profound. They fought to escape the brutal rule of the French colonizers, to reclaim freedom and basic human rights. In their hearts, the bond of comradeship was the most sacred and precious gift they received during their long journey of carrying arms.
"Guns beside guns, heads next to heads,
Sharing a blanket in the cold night, becoming close friends."
On the other hand, during the anti-American war, the concept of patriotism and national unity was deeply embedded in the minds of those fighting in the war zones. They understood that, during this period, the North was working to build socialism while the South still endured the hardships of American imperialist aggression. National unity became the primary goal of the people. In the hearts of the soldiers of the Truong Son, the spirits of optimism, determination, and comradeship formed during the previous wars fueled their desire to liberate the South.
"The car keeps moving forward for the South ahead:
As long as there is one heart in the car."
It would be remiss not to discuss the beauty of these two poems. "Comrade" embodies the beauty of simplicity, naturalness, and depth. The comradeship is expressed so organically, intertwined with a powerful spirit of patriotism and mutual sharing between friends. Meanwhile, "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" highlights youth, optimism, courage, and a fiery patriotism burning in their hearts. Their aspirations and hopes are symbolized in the cars without windows, which carry them through the Truong Son mountains as they march forward for the beloved South.
However, these soldiers, regardless of the period, all share an undying yearning for their homeland. Living in the battlefield with the sacred comradeship, the hearts of these farmers ache whenever they think of their elderly mothers, wives, or young children. They feel sorrow when they imagine the abandoned fields now overgrown with weeds, and the empty homes that seem even lonelier.
"The fields I entrusted to my friend to plow,
The empty house, withstanding the gusts of wind,
The well under the banyan tree reminds me of the soldiers."
For the anti-American soldiers, their longing is for their school years and their regret over the untouched pages of their notebooks. They are saddened by the need to abandon their bright future dreams as they march into battle. Yet, they understand that their duty to their country remains, and they are determined to fight with all their might. They turn the road to war into a shared home, uniting their hearts in the spirit of fighting against foreign invaders.
"The fire stove we build under the sky,
Sharing a bowl and chopsticks, this is family."
Regarding the artistry of these two poems, it is easy to spot clear differences. Chinh Huu employs a romantic style, creating a poetic image of comradeship with the symbol "the moon hanging over the rifle barrel." The emotions swell and then settle, forming images of both war and peace, resulting in a poetic work that is both tender and captivating. On the other hand, Pham Tien Duat depicts soldiers with what is closest to their real-life experiences in battle: "cars without windows." This image is truly unique, making readers pause in admiration for the boldness and simplicity, yet deeply poetic nature, of "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows."
Yet, despite differences in their circumstances, backgrounds, and ideals, both groups of soldiers shared a common goal: to fight for the peace, independence, and freedom of their country. They based their actions on determination and spirit, advancing towards a future built upon comradeship. Even knowing that many would sacrifice their lives in the struggle, this only strengthened the resolve of the soldiers, giving wings to the dreams of those who fought. The image of the soldier from both eras embodies the noble qualities of the soldiers of Ho Chi Minh that we must cherish and honor.
In conclusion, the soldier remains the most vibrant and enduring symbol of war, whether during the feudal era or in the fight against American imperialism. They are depicted as both familiar and beloved figures, with the warmth of comradeship that has always existed and will continue to reside in our hearts. They are like the tough cactus striving to grow amidst the vast and barren desert, the light that illuminates the path of our homeland, guiding the nation towards peace and development as we see today.
4. Essay comparing the image of soldiers in the two poems "Comrade" and "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" No. 7
Father's generation and the next generation
Have become comrades marching together in battle
(To Huu)
After thirty years of the great patriotic war, our nation achieved an epic victory: defeating French colonialists and American imperialists. It can be said that the central figure of this era created a legend—the soldier of Uncle Ho. The image of the soldier of Uncle Ho has become a beautiful inspiration in modern poetry. Among the poems on this topic, we must mention "Comrade" by Chinh Huu and "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" by Pham Tien Duat. These two poems, tied to the resistance wars against France and America, will help us better understand the image of the soldier.
Chinh Huu, born in 1926, joined the army in 1946 as a soldier of the Capital Regiment. In early 1948, the poem "Comrade" was written when he was a political officer of a battalion. Pham Tien Duat, born in 1941, enlisted in the army in 1964 and served along the Truong Son road. His poem "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" was written in 1969. The two poets represent two different generations, following each other in the nation's long journey. These two poems are among the most important works of their respective literary periods, showcasing the image of the soldier of Uncle Ho. The soldiers in these poems are emblematic figures of Vietnamese poetry from 1945-1975 and will live on forever in the hearts of readers.
Reading "Comrade", our overall impression is that the revolutionary soldiers in the resistance against France came from the peasant class. Chinh Huu depicts them in a simple yet noble manner. Unlike the romanticized, heroic portrayal of early anti-French resistance poetry, Chinh Huu's inspiration in "Comrade" focuses on the reality of life, drawing beauty and poetry from the 'real life' of battle and the soldiers. The beauty in hardship, scarcity, and especially the beauty in comradeship is poignant and profound:
His homeland is salty water and sour fields
My village is poor with land where plows turn up stones
I am a stranger to you
We met without prior arrangement
Guns by our sides, heads close together
In the cold night, we share a blanket as two soulmates
Comrade!
This opening segment, consisting of seven lines and three pairs, culminates in the word "Comrade", which explains the comradeship of soldiers. It originates from a shared situation, coming from poverty, with the same goal, ideals, and mission, enduring hardships together ("Guns by our sides, heads close together/ In the cold night, we share a blanket as two soulmates..."). A single word—comrade—turns strangers into close companions and, more deeply, into comrades. In the past, people used the term 'soulmates' to describe the closest friends. Chinh Huu sees in the soldier of Uncle Ho a bond even deeper, a comradeship formed not just by mutual understanding, but by something far greater: the shared hardships of the battle for independence.
Words alone are insufficient to express this bond. No matter how affectionate or tender the words are, they fail to carry the weight of the emotional connection between comrades. Thus, the second stanza of the poem, consisting of ten lines, ends with an action that replaces a thousand words: "We hold each other's hands in love." The comradeship between the soldiers of the national defense, as Chinh Huu puts it:
You and I know every shiver of cold
The fever makes our heads sweat, my shirt torn at the shoulders
My pants patched in several places
We smile through the freezing cold
With no shoes on our feet...
This is the same feeling shared by the early rebels against French colonization in the mid-19th century, as depicted in the poem "The Funeral Oration for the Martyrs of Can Giuoc" by Nguyen Dinh Chieu. These people did not enter this struggle with romantic notions, but the fight for the nation transformed them into heroes and romantics. The final image in the poem shows the inevitable result of comradeship:
Tonight, in the wilderness with salt and mist
We stand side by side waiting for the enemy
The moon hangs above the muzzle of the gun
These are the real lives of poor peasant soldiers: salty water, sour fields, land turned to stone, torn clothes, patched pants, bare feet... all made noble by the beautiful revolutionary love of comradeship. If "Comrade" depicts the image of an illiterate peasant soldier in the early stages of the French resistance, then the soldier in "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" is a different transformation. They are young men and students who have spent over 20 years under the roof of schools in the North, now fighting to liberate the South and reunify the country.
The soldiers in "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" do not share the characteristics described above, but they still share the same youthful, carefree, and unbothered spirit. They are soldiers who drive cars, those cars that survived through the bombings: they come together to form a squad: "No windows, no lights, no roof..." Because: "The bomb blasts and the windows are shattered." Yet they endure many hardships: wind, dust, and torrential rain, but:
The car keeps moving forward because the South is ahead
As long as there is a heart inside the car
The comradeship in Pham Tien Duat's poem is expressed in the collective 'we'. All are comrades: young, strong, and brave, undeterred by danger.
No windows, not because the car has no windows
The bomb blasts and the windows are shattered.
But:
We sit confidently in the driver's seat
Looking at the earth, the sky, looking straight ahead...
Dust turns our hair white... laughing heartily
The rain pours... but soon stops
We meet friends... the windows are broken
They don't need to share the same background, they don't need to be in the same situation; for them, from within the bombing... they form a squad. While the image of the soldier in "Comrade" is a statue: Standing side by side waiting for the enemy/ The moon hangs above the muzzle of the gun, the soldiers in Pham Tien Duat's poem are a collective of youthful, carefree faces.
"Comrade" by Chinh Huu and "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" by Pham Tien Duat are two highlights in the portrayal of soldiers—the soldiers of Uncle Ho—created through 30 years of arduous struggle until the final victory in 1975.
5. Essay comparing the image of soldiers in the two poems "Comrade" and "The Poem of the Squad of Cars Without Windows" No. 8
6. Essay comparing the images of soldiers in the two poems "Dong Chi" and "Bai tho ve tieu doi xe khong kinh" number 9
The Russian writer Aimatop once wrote: "It is impossible to talk about war in simple terms, we cannot view it as a gentle fairy tale that lulls us to sleep. War settles into the blood within the deepest recesses of the human heart, and telling its story is not an easy task." This is indeed true; narrating the tale of war for Vietnamese writers and poets is no simple feat. However, Chính Hữu and Phạm Tiến Duật, military poets who rose through the ranks during the wars defending the nation, viewed this painful reality with a humanistic and noble perspective. Surpassing the sorrow and suffering of humanity, they gifted the world poems filled with the love for the country and a deep bond of comradeship, as expressed in their works "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính".
Both poems depict the image of soldiers in the Vietnam People's Army, but while they share common elements, each poem has its own unique beauty. "Đồng chí" by Chính Hữu was written in 1948, after the Việt Bắc campaign in the autumn of 1947. During this early phase of the resistance war, the newly-formed government faced significant challenges. The soldiers in "Đồng chí" were those fighting against the French, coming from the humble rural backgrounds, where poverty defined their lives:
"Quê hương anh nước mặn đồng chua
Làng tôi nghèo đất cày lên sỏi đá"
In contrast, "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" by Phạm Tiến Duật was written in 1969, during the fierce years of the American resistance. The soldiers of this time were much younger, most of them freshly graduated from school, filled with youthful energy and dreams. These young soldiers were:
"Xẻ dọc Trường Sơn đi đánh Mỹ"
Mà lòng phơi phới dậy tương lai".
Their different circumstances naturally led to different revolutionary awareness. The soldiers in "Đồng chí" had simpler, less sophisticated views compared to those in the later period of the American war. In "Đồng chí", the most sacred feeling mentioned is comradeship, while in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", we see a growing spirit of patriotism:
"Xe vẫn chạy vì miền Nam phía trước
Chỉ cần trong xe có một trái tim" .
In the battlefield, where comradeship holds great value, the soldier fighting against the French longs for his family—the elderly mother, the young wife, and the children. However, by the time of the American war, soldiers had a different understanding; they realized that the struggle was not only harsh but prolonged. The truck and the road leading to the frontlines had become their shared home, and their comrades were like family:
"Bếp Hoàng câm ta dựng giữa trời"
"Chung bát đũa nghĩa là gia đình đấy".
The most fundamental difference between these two poems lies in the writing style of the two poets. Chính Hữu employed a realistic-romantic technique to create the image of soldiers from the early phase of the war, highlighting their struggles and poverty:
"Áo anh rách vai"
"Quần tôi có vài mảnh vá"
"Miệng cười buốt giá Chân không giày"
The romantic inspiration is evident in the deep emotion for comradeship: "Đồng chí!" and the poetic image of "head of the gun with the moon hanging". In contrast, "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" uses a romantic-realistic approach. The harshness of their situation is not ignored:
"Ung dung buồng lái ta ngồi"
"Nhìn đất, nhìn trời, nhìn thẳng."
"Ừ thì có bụi"
"Ừ thì ướt áo",...
In "Đồng chí", Chính Hữu portrays soldiers with a sacred bond of comradeship, sharing the hardships of a resistance life full of challenges and deprivation. Phạm Tiến Duật’s "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" captures the vibrant youth, the joy of life, and the mischievous idealism of young soldiers fighting against the Americans.
Though shaped by different historical contexts, the soldiers in these two poems share admirable common qualities, emblematic of the Vietnamese people's soldiers. Their patriotism, love for their comrades, and willingness to leave behind their "water wells and banyan roots", the streets, homes, and even loved ones, reflect their deep commitment to the call of the homeland. In the most difficult and impoverished conditions, their fighting spirit surged, embodying a resolute commitment to defend their nation:
"Súng bên súng, đầu sát bên đầu"
"Xe vẫn chạy vì miền Nam phía trước"
"Chỉ cần trong xe có một trái tim".
They stand together, side by side, with their comrades, ready to fight courageously. In "Đồng chí", it is expressed as: "Thương nhau tay nắm lấy bàn tay", and in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", this image is familiar: "Bắt tay nhau qua cửa kính vỡ rồi".
Despite the hardships, they remain optimistic, joyful, and full of life. The handshake symbolizes their sacred comradeship, sharing faith in victory, love, courage, and the strength of unity in the face of life and death. In their hearts, there is no distinction between life and death. Their handshakes speak louder than words:
"Phút chia tay ta chỉ nắm tay mình"
"Điều chưa nói bàn tay đã nói"
(Lưu Quang Vũ)
Although there are distinct similarities and differences, these only enhance the vivid, dynamic, and relatable portrayal of the soldiers in the poems. This allows the reader to gain a deeper understanding of these soldiers. Their image stands as a beautiful symbol, a beacon of hope, and an ideal entrusted by the people. In them, the reader finds a radiant light of high, sacred ideals. Moreover, the differences in their portrayal reflect the unique style of each poet, enriching and beautifying the artistic landscape of our nation.
7. An essay comparing the image of the soldier in the two poems "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" No. 10
In modern Vietnamese literature, the image of the soldier holding a rifle to protect the country holds an incredibly important place. This figure not only represents a symbolic artistic motif in numerous works but also embodies the most beautiful image of the Vietnamese people during the era of Ho Chi Minh. Many authors were present at the forefront of the resistance, capturing the reality of soldier life with authenticity and vibrancy. The images of soldiers in the early years of the French resistance and the South Vietnamese Liberation Army during the American war are vividly reflected, each showcasing different beauties. This can be clearly seen in the poems "Đồng chí" by Chính Hữu and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" by Phạm Tiến Duật.
The poem "Đồng chí" was written by poet Chính Hữu in 1948, published in the collection "Đầu súng trăng treo". The image of the peasant soldier is depicted in the poem with simplicity, humility, but also a touch of romanticism and idealism. These peasants, who spent their lives toiling with their oxen and fields, left their homes to fight after hearing the call to defend the nation. Most of them were illiterate, learning the alphabet only when they joined the army, but their love for their country was profound. They understood in simple terms that fighting to protect the nation's freedom was as crucial as defending their land, their homes, and their families. The right to live, for each person, compelled them to act.
The life of a soldier was difficult, full of danger and hardships, yet it revealed the noble qualities of these peasants dressed in military uniforms. From every corner of the country, without any prior arrangement, they met each other, becoming comrades, brothers-in-arms. Born and raised in impoverished, struggling rural areas, they carried with them the innocence and simplicity of working-class people. As they fought against foreign invaders, they left behind their familiar villages, fields, and humble thatched homes, as well as their loved ones.
Ruộng nương anh gửi bạn thân cày,
Gian nhà không mặc kệ gió lung lay.
The phrase "mặc kệ" reflects the natural, simple manner of the peasant, indicating their firm prioritization of the national cause over personal concerns. While resolute, they still felt a deep yearning for home, family, and village life. The soldiers’ longing was simple and specific: the fields, the wells, the banyan trees, and the thatched roofs—the familiar sights of a poor rural life. In the army, they bonded, shared joys and sorrows, faced life and death together. Nothing is more sincere and trusting than the hand of a comrade, passing warmth and strength during moments of hardship and danger.
In the early stages of the resistance, our forces fought with little equipment or supplies. Soldiers had to make do with what they had, which was far less than what we have today. Yet, the most beautiful thing was the optimistic smile of the soldier. Smiling through the cold was an expression of defiance against hardship, a firm belief in the coming victory. The poem concludes with a deeply symbolic image:
Đêm nay rừng hoang sương muối
Đứng cạnh bên nhau chờ giặc tới
Đầu súng trăng treo.
This is a simple yet wonderful and poetic image of the soldier in the early stages of the resistance, and it also praises the sacred bond of comradeship between those who stood side by side, protecting the nation and bringing peace to the people. If the poem "Đồng chí" portrays the image of a soldier during the resistance against France, then "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" reflects the image of the Liberation Army soldier during the arduous and intense struggle against America.
The soldier driving a truck on the Trường Sơn road was incredibly brave, possessing remarkable endurance, yet still filled with revolutionary optimism. The vehicle rolling forward symbolized the soldier’s entry into battle. Life and death were a mere step apart, yet they stood tall, confident, and unyielding.
Facing enemy aircraft, our truck drivers were often in a vulnerable position. But what gave them the composure to enter the battlefield with such ease? Their greatest source of mental strength was their unshakable belief in victory for the Southern liberation cause, their deep love for the homeland, and the truth that "We would rather sacrifice everything than let our country fall, rather than live as slaves," as President Hồ Chí Minh declared on behalf of the nation. They knew that the battlefield and their comrades needed weapons, food, and medical supplies to fight back the enemy effectively. The sacred sovereignty, freedom, and independence of the nation spurred them into action.
Anyone who has set foot on the Trường Sơn road during the American war can truly understand the hardships and dangers faced by the truck drivers. The road was rough and treacherous. In the rainy season, the downpour was overwhelming, and in the dry season, the dust would blind the drivers. On clear days, enemy bombs continuously rained down on the convoy heading to the front lines. The truck drivers, even without windows, endured these hardships more than anyone could imagine!
The convoy created massive dust storms. Without windows, the wind blew fiercely into the cabin, causing the driver to feel as if they were staring into the wind and dust. The wind made their eyes sting, tears flowing, but they called it "the wind rubbing their eyes," which was both unique and humorous. It seemed the drivers challenged the harsh conditions of the Trường Sơn jungle with a defiant spirit. Without the windows, the connection between the people and nature became even more intimate, making the surrounding environment seem to influence their perceptions more vividly; the stars at night, the birds during the day, all seemed to fly into the cabin. As the vehicle surged forward, the road seemed to fade behind, and the driver felt as though they could see the path leading directly to their heart. This line carries a profound meaning: the road to the battlefield in the South was, for the soldier, the true destination of their heart.
Every hardship is described by poet Phạm Tiến Duật through simple yet striking imagery, leaving a deep impression on readers. Extreme hardship is matched by extraordinary heroism. This is the optimistic and peaceful spirit of the Vietnamese people, the courage that is innate to them. The truck drivers accepted all these challenges with cheerfulness, indifference, and a touch of rebelliousness—the spirit of a soldier. The poem’s ending is beautiful. The harsh, realistic conditions and the romantic, lofty spirit merge perfectly:
Không có kính, rồi xe không có đèn,
Không có mui xe, thùng xe có xước.
Xe vẫn chạy vì miền Nam phía trước,
Chỉ cần trong xe có một trái tim.
As the victory draws nearer, the hardships become even greater—that is the rule of war. The severe effects of the war are clearly reflected in the army’s transport trucks: no windows, no lights, no roofs, and the bodies of the trucks scratched by enemy bombs. But the trucks still roll toward the South—the frontline, beckoning them onward, driven by the beating heart inside the vehicle, filled with love and responsibility toward the nation’s fate. The final image of the heart is a powerful artistic metaphor, honoring the heroism of the truck drivers and elevating the poem’s message both in terms of content and artistic value. The courage, serenity, and optimism of the truck drivers in the face of bombs and bullets are truly emblematic of the revolutionary heroism of the Vietnamese youth and the nation’s people during the American War.
The poem "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" is a narrative poem with strong revolutionary lyricism. The poet portrays the truck drivers with deep admiration and affection. They are volunteers who embrace hardship and sacrifice with joy. The language is simple and natural, yet full of emotional power, with unique and creative imagery, free-flowing rhythm—these elements make the poem both beautiful and meaningful. Yet, the most precious quality is the poet’s heartfelt emotion, embodying the spirit of the heroic youth of a nation at war.
Both poems by these soldier-poets were written in different contexts and times, yet share the same romantic and realistic style, all with the aim of celebrating the soldier’s beauty in the struggle to defend the nation. Throughout both poems, the spirit of comradeship and the soldier’s duty to the nation shine through. Willingness to sacrifice, enduring hardship, and unwavering determination to fight—these are the standout qualities of the soldier in the poetry of Chính Hữu and Phạm Tiến Duật.
8. Essay comparing the depiction of soldiers in the two poems "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" number 1
As poets who emerged from the military ranks, forged in the crucible of war to defend the homeland, Chính Hữu and Phạm Tiến Duật lived through and deeply understood the life of soldiers on the battlefield. In their hands, not only did they wield weapons to fight, but they also created timeless verses about soldiers. Two of these poems are Chính Hữu's "Đồng chí" and Phạm Tiến Duật's "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính". Both poems portray the image of soldiers in the Vietnam People's Army, but despite the common ground they share, each one carries its own unique beauty.
Chính Hữu's "Đồng chí" was written in 1948, during the early years of the war against the French, when the fledgling government was still finding its footing. The soldiers in "Đồng chí" are those fighting the French, many of whom come from the humble backgrounds of poor rural villages:
"Your homeland, with salty water and sour fields"
"My village is poor, with fields that yield only rocks"
On the other hand, Phạm Tiến Duật's "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" was written in 1969, at the height of the American resistance war. The soldiers of this time were mostly young, freshly graduated from school, with youthful, hopeful spirits. These were the soldiers:
"Crossing the Truong Son to fight the Americans"
"With hearts full of hope for the future"
These differing circumstances naturally lead to a contrast in the soldiers' awareness of the revolutionary cause. The soldiers of the French resistance, in "Đồng chí", had simpler, less profound views on the war compared to their American counterparts, who were more deeply aware of the long struggle. In "Đồng chí", the strongest sentiment expressed is comradeship, while in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", a sense of willpower and patriotism emerges:
"The trucks keep moving toward the South"
"As long as there's a heart in the truck"
In the midst of battle, the soldiers of the French resistance long for their families—old mothers, young wives, and children. But the soldiers resisting the Americans have a different understanding. They realize that the struggle is long and grueling. Thus, the truck and the journey to the frontlines become their shared home, and their comrades have become their true family:
"We set up the Hoang Cam stove in the open air"
"Sharing bowls and chopsticks means we're family"
Another key difference between the two poems lies in the poetic techniques of the authors. Chính Hữu employs a realist-romantic style to depict the early days of the war with hardships and deprivation:
"Your jacket has torn sleeves"
"My pants have several patches"
"We smile through the cold"
"Without shoes"
The romanticism in "Đồng chí" is captured in the sacred bond of comradeship and images like "the moon hanging above the rifle". Phạm Tiến Duật’s poem, on the other hand, employs a romantic-realistic approach. The harsh conditions are not avoided:
"No glass in the truck, no headlights"
"No roof, the truck is scratched"
Yet above it all, the youthful, carefree optimism of the soldiers shines through:
"We sit confidently in the driver's seat"
"Looking at the earth, the sky, straight ahead"
"Well, let it be dust and wind"
"Well, let it be wet clothes"
In "Đồng chí" by Chính Hữu, the poet creates the image of soldiers bound by a sacred bond of comradeship, sharing the hardships of the war. In "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" by Phạm Tiến Duật, the poem paints a picture of youthful exuberance, full of optimism and dreams, portraying the soldiers fighting the Americans.
Despite the clear differences influenced by the historical context, the soldiers in both poems share the same admirable traits of Vietnam People's Army soldiers. They possess a deep love for their country, their comrades, and their nation. For the call of the homeland, they left behind their homes, their streets, their loved ones. Amid the hardship and deprivation of battle, their fighting spirit surges forth with fierce energy. They are unafraid of danger or difficulty, standing firm with their weapons to defend their homeland:
"Rifles beside rifles, heads close together"
"The truck keeps moving toward the South"
"As long as there's a heart in the truck"
They stand side by side, with their comrades, fighting courageously. In "Đồng chí", it’s:
"We hold hands with love"
While in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính", that image becomes even more familiar: "Shaking hands through the broken window." No matter the deprivation or hardships, they accept it with joy and optimism. That handshake symbolizes the sacred bond of comradeship, passing on hope, love, and courage. Life and death seem to have no meaning for these soldiers.
Despite the noticeable similarities and differences, these soldiers—embodied in both poems—emerge in vibrant, relatable, and dynamic ways. This makes them even more relatable and helps the reader understand them better. Their images stand out as symbols of hope and belief, embodying the idealistic and sacred light that the people place in them. In their words, the reader sees a brilliant light of high ideals, purity, and faith. Moreover, the differences in style showcase each poet’s individual approach, enriching and beautifying our national literary tradition.
9. Essay comparing the image of soldiers in the two poems "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" number 2
The image of the soldier is one of the central symbols in Vietnam's revolutionary literature. Among the literary works that portray this figure are the soldiers of Hồ Chí Minh, depicted with admirable qualities. Two works, Đồng chí (1948) by Chính Hữu and Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính (1969) by Phạm Tiến Duật, are part of this tradition.
Each poem presents a distinct image of the soldier. In Chính Hữu's Đồng chí, readers encounter the image of a soldier who is a humble farmer, sincere and simple, from a modest background:
Quê hương anh nước mặn đồng chua
Làng tôi nghèo đất cày lên sỏi đá
These soldiers, once simple farmers with dirty hands from tilling the soil, left their poor villages to fight for a common cause. They became comrades, standing side by side. In contrast, the soldiers in Phạm Tiến Duật's Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính are youthful, spontaneous, witty, and bold. Many of them were young students who went straight from school to the battlefield. They exude a playful attitude from the very first line: “Không có kính không phải vì xe không có kính” – a line filled with the lively, passionate voice of youth. The opening lines explain the reason why the vehicle has no windshield. The young soldier driving the vehicle transforms what is abnormal into something normal, even finding joy in the unusual situation.
Despite the differences in age and backgrounds, both poems feature soldiers embodying the same noble qualities of Hồ Chí Minh’s soldiers, such as the willingness to overcome hardship, the strong bond of comradeship, steadfast determination, and an optimistic, life-loving spirit.
Throughout Vietnam's prolonged struggle, soldiers faced countless challenges. During the early years of the resistance against French colonialism, the soldiers in Chính Hữu's Đồng chí had to endure the hardships of war—cold, exhaustion, and scarcity. Those who lived through the soldier’s life in those years deeply felt the suffering they endured. One of the major challenges was malaria:
Anh với tôi biết từng cơn ớn lạnh
Sốt run người vừng trán ướt mồ hôi
The soldiers who first contracted the disease would experience chills, followed by uncontrollable shivering. Even under many blankets, they couldn’t warm up. Their bodies were drenched in sweat from the fever and weakness. After the fever, their skin turned yellow, and some suffered from jaundice. Tố Hữu also wrote about this disease affecting soldiers: “Giọt giọt mồ hôi rơi – Trên má anh vàng nghệ”. In his poem Lên Cấm Sơn, Tố Hữu also referenced the deadly disease: “Nước da đã lên màu tật bệnh – Đâu còn tươi nữa những ngày hoa”. This disease not only left its mark on the skin but also took the lives of many soldiers. Some couldn’t fight it and died in the forest: “Anh bạn dãi dầu không bước nữa – Gục lên súng mũ bỏ quên đời” (Quang Dũng – Tây Tiến). Apart from dealing with illness, the early days of the resistance were extremely difficult for soldiers:
Áo anh rách vai
Quần tôi có vài mảnh vá
Miệng cười buốt giá
Chân không giày
The hardships soldiers faced were vividly depicted in Chính Hữu’s poem, using a realistic writing style that brought out the raw, painful truth. Poet Hồng Nguyên, in his poem Nhớ, also describes soldiers lacking proper military gear, having to fight with homemade weapons:
Lột sắt đường tàu
Rèn thêm dao kiếm
Ảo vải chân không
Đi lùng giặc đánh
When writing about the soldiers in Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính, Phạm Tiến Duật didn’t focus on the lack of military supplies, but rather on the harshness of the battlefield. Bombs and shells turned the vehicles into ones without windshields. The reason for this was: “Bom giật bom rung kính vỡ đi rồi.” Without windshields, “Bụi phun tóc trắng như người già,” “Mưa tuôn mưa xối như ngoài trời.” Yet, the author cheerfully calls his team “the windshield-less squad.” On the Trường Sơn road—where “every square meter has three big bombs”—many soldiers fell. One poet captured the sorrow of this situation with these lines:
Nếu tất cả trở về đông đủ
Sư đoàn tôi sẽ thành mấy sư đoàn?
War is always about loss and grief. Yet, the soldiers driving the vehicles overcame these dangers, fulfilling their duties with optimism and youthful vigor. They carried themselves with pride, courage, and disregard for danger: “Ung dung buồng lái ta ngồi – Nhìn đất, nhìn trời, nhìn thẳng.” This posture of theirs entered history as the heroic stance of the Trường Sơn soldiers.
Despite the overwhelming difficulties, these soldiers maintained a cheerful, life-loving spirit. Even in the cold of the forest, they would smile: “Miệng cười buốt giá” (Đồng chí). They didn’t fear challenges and hardships. This line demonstrates their optimism and calm demeanor in the face of adversity. They laughed in the face of obstacles and accepted every challenge: “Không có kính, ừ thì có bụi – Bụi phun tóc trắng như người già – Chưa cần rửa, phì phèo châm điếu thuốc – Nhìn nhau mặt lấm cười ha ha,” followed by “Không có kính, ừ thì ướt áo – Mưa tuôn, mưa xối như ngoài trời – Chưa cần thay, lái trăm cây số nữa – Mưa ngừng, gió lùa, khô mau thôi.” Anyone who has walked the Trường Sơn road during the resistance against the Americans understands the difficulties faced by the soldiers driving the vehicles. The road was treacherous, the rain of Trường Sơn poured like a flood, and in the dry season, dust filled the air. On clear days, American bombs rained down on the convoy. Even when the vehicles had windshields, the soldiers driving them struggled. Without windshields, their hardships were magnified.
Amidst the fire and explosions of war, the soldiers became even more united, caring for one another. Despite the hardships, they were willing to share their blankets and clothes: “Đêm rét chung chăn thành đôi tri kỉ,” “Thương nhau tay nắm lấy bàn tay” (Chính Hữu – Đồng chí). This grasp of the hand symbolizes solidarity and a shared effort to overcome adversity. No matter how fierce the American bombs were, they could not prevent the comradeship of the Trường Sơn soldiers: “Gặp bè bạn suốt dọc đường đi tới – Bắt tay qua cửa kính vỡ rồi.” This handshake represents the futility of the enemy’s violence and the shared joy of victory. Even amidst the bombs, the American imperialists could not stop the Vietnamese soldiers: “Bếp Hoàng Cầm ta dựng giữa trời – Chung bát đũa nghĩa là gia đình đấy – Võng mắc chông chênh đường xe chạy – Lại đi, lại đi trời xanh thêm.” Resting along the Trường Sơn road, the soldiers encouraged each other, hoping for a brighter tomorrow: “Chỉ cần trong xe có một trái tim.” Despite the lack of windshields, lights, or roof, the vehicles always moved forward, heading towards the beloved South.
The painful yet enduring bond of comradeship will remain unforgettable for every soldier who has lived and fought alongside their comrades. Though these two poems differ in tone, circumstances of creation, and the soldiers' backgrounds, they both successfully capture the image of Hồ Chí Minh’s soldier – the “Thạch Sanh of the 20th century” (Tố Hữu).
10. Essay comparing the depiction of soldiers in the poems "Đồng chí" and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" number 3
Poetry originates from life itself. Perhaps that is why each poem creates a resonance between the emotions of the reader, the listener, and the poet's soul. Particularly, poems that are connected to the image of soldiers in the two resistance wars against France and the U.S. allow us to appreciate the difficult, fighting life of the people even more. However, the image of the soldier in each period contains both similarities and differences, so the poems from each era reflect distinct depictions of soldiers, most notably in the works "Đồng chí" by Chính Hữu and "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" by Phạm Tiến Duật.
The first difference lies in their fighting circumstances and backgrounds. The verses of the poem "Đồng chí" were penned by Chính Hữu in May 1948, during the early years of the French colonialists’ return to invade Vietnam after the August Revolution. This was a period of great hardship, especially in the war zones where resources were scarce. Recognizing the nation’s pain, poor farmers from all over the country left their fields, "the water’s edge and banyan trees" to follow the sacred call of the country.
“Your homeland has salty water, sour fields
My village is poor, the land is plowed into stone.”
In contrast, Phạm Tiến Duật, a young poet during the resistance against U.S. aggression, wrote "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" in May 1969. This time marked the most brutal period of the Vietnam War against the U.S. Young soldiers, full of life, entered the battlefield with the bright promise of youth. They left without concern for the future, their feet bound to the battlefield by their love for the country.
And because of their different backgrounds, their fighting ideals and awareness were inevitably different as well. In the poem "Đồng chí", the soldiers’ understanding of the war was simpler and less profound. They fought simply to escape the oppressive colonial rule of the French, to regain their freedom and humanity. For them, comradeship was the most sacred and invaluable gift they received during their time at war.
“Guns beside guns, heads close together,
On cold nights, sharing a blanket as close friends.”
Comrades!”
During the resistance against the U.S., however, the spirit of national unity and love for the country had already been deeply ingrained in every person in the war zone. They understood the importance of "unity" because, while the North was building socialism, the South continued to suffer from U.S. imperialist aggression. "Unity" became the most important goal for the nation. In the hearts of the Vietnamese people, the soldiers of the Truong Son mountain pass carried with them the optimism, resolve to win, and comradeship formed during the resistance against the French.
“The vehicle still runs for the South ahead:
As long as there is a heart in the vehicle.”
It would be remiss to discuss the two poems without acknowledging their beauty. "Đồng chí" embodies simple, rustic beauty with deep emotions. Comradeship is portrayed naturally, blending with the strong love for the country and the bond between friends. On the other hand, "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính" highlights youthfulness, optimism, and courage, with a fiery love for the country in their hearts. Their hopes and beliefs are embedded in the "vehicles without windows" that carried them through the Truong Son mountain pass, marching forward for their beloved South.
Yet, despite these differences, the soldiers, regardless of their time period, share an inescapable longing for home. Living in the battlefield with sacred comradeship, the farmers' hearts are pulled when memories of elderly mothers, wives, and children appear before them. They feel sorrow when thinking of their neglected fields and the lonely empty homes left behind.
“I send my fields to my dear friend to plow,
The house is empty, the wind still sways,
The well beneath the banyan tree remembers the soldier who left.”
Soldiers fighting against the U.S. felt differently, their longing was for their school days, the regret of leaving behind their fresh notebooks. They were sad to close the door on their brilliant dreams of the future. But they knew their duty to the homeland remained, and so they resolved to fight with all their might. They turned their journey to the battlefield into a shared home, where hearts united by the spirit of resisting foreign invaders.
“We set up our kitchen in the open sky,
Sharing bowls and chopsticks, that is our family.”
When discussing the art of the two poems, it is easy to notice the clear differences. Chính Hữu uses romanticism, crafting the poetic image of comradeship with the iconic "moon hanging beside the gun". The inspiration rises and then calms, becoming a symbol of both battle and peace, delivering a poem that is both lyrical and captivating. In contrast, Phạm Tiến Duật builds the image of the soldier with what is most tangible in the battlefield: "a vehicle without windows". This image is so unique, making the reader marvel at its novelty, simplicity, and poetic quality in "Bài thơ về tiểu đội xe không kính".
But despite the differences in their backgrounds, their origins, and their ideals, they all shared the same goal: to fight for the peace, independence, and freedom of their country. They relied on determination as their foundation and spirit as their support to move forward toward a future built on comradeship. Although they knew that many would sacrifice in this life-or-death struggle, it only fueled their dreams, pushing their aspirations higher and further. The soldiers in both wars embodied the noble qualities of the soldiers of Hồ Chí Minh’s army, which we must cherish and appreciate.
In conclusion, the soldier will forever remain the brightest and most vivid symbol of war, whether in the anti-French or anti-American struggle. They appear as close and dear figures, with the warmth of comradeship that has, is, and will always be cherished in our hearts. They are like sturdy cactus plants striving to grow in the vast, arid desert. They are the lamps lighting the path for our homeland, guiding our country to peace and prosperity, as we see today.
