Danny Cordova
Staff Writer
In Tom Piazza’s novel, My Cold War, John Delano is a history professor at Hollister College, where he takes an unconventional approach in teaching. Instead of examining policies and the politics that took place during the Cold War, Delano’s approach consists of analyzing the “surfaces” or products of the Cold War. Delano works on writing a book that examine these surfaces during his childhood. However, the task becomes difficult. During his childhood, Delano had a father who was angry and bitter towards his family. As Delano becomes an adult, he would attempt to forget his unwanted memories. He faces constant hardships during the writing process. Eventually, he tries to fix the problems that he strives to avoid. The relationship of his brother becomes a greater focus to Delano as attempts to better their relationship.
Delano spends the first part averting unwanted memories of his past to focus on his book. However, as he struggles to write after the death of his father, he decides to rekindle the relationship of his younger brother, Chris, who Delano hadn't spoken to in eight years.
Instead of analyzing, Delano takes action in the second part of the novel. It becomes a more personal experience as he attempts to connect with his younger brother. At one point, Delano visits his childhood home, where he notices a section of the lawn where a pool was previously located. Delano recalls a pool activity with Chris and his father. Delano remembers a point in his childhood where he, his brother, and father enjoyed their time together, which he yearns to share with Chris.
Essentially, the lives and well being of ordinary people during the Cold War was not a huge factor when it came to policy-making. While there is a strong emphasis on policies, politics, elections, and strategies when one learns about the Cold War, it is important to consider the perspective of actually living through the time period.
Delano spends the first part averting unwanted memories of his past to focus on his book. However, as he struggles to write after the death of his father, he decides to rekindle the relationship of his younger brother, Chris, who Delano hadn't spoken to in eight years.
Instead of analyzing, Delano takes action in the second part of the novel. It becomes a more personal experience as he attempts to connect with his younger brother. At one point, Delano visits his childhood home, where he notices a section of the lawn where a pool was previously located. Delano recalls a pool activity with Chris and his father. Delano remembers a point in his childhood where he, his brother, and father enjoyed their time together, which he yearns to share with Chris.
Essentially, the lives and well being of ordinary people during the Cold War was not a huge factor when it came to policy-making. While there is a strong emphasis on policies, politics, elections, and strategies when one learns about the Cold War, it is important to consider the perspective of actually living through the time period.