Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, and Carrots Symbol Analysis

Roast beef, mashed potatoes, and carrots symbolize the futility and failure of American efforts in the Vietnam War. In the first four months of Perry’s tour of duty, the soldiers of his battalion find themselves being served roast beef, mashed potatoes, and carrots on repeat. At first, the meal seems like a treat—a trio of comfort foods reminiscent of home. In much the same way, Perry and the other soldiers initially feel sure that the war will be over, and they will be going home soon. But as the war drags on, the only thing that seems to change from one patrol to the next is who lives and who dies. The treat becomes a disappointing reminder of how little real effect the soldiers seem to have on the outcome of the war, and a grim reminder of how they must accept their orders and the circumstances in Vietnam without dissent or complaint.