The Women: A Novel

In the first chapter of The Women, Frankie is drawn to the heroes’ wall in her parents’ house—photographs of the family’s male veterans. These men are lauded by her father, as they strengthen the family’s reputation and symbolize sacrifices for one’s community and country. Frankie believes joining the Vietnam War, followed by the inclusion of her photograph on the wall, will earn her parents’ pride. However, in their traditional view, women do not belong on the wall; thus, as much as Frankie appreciates the wall, it reinforces the male-dominated nature of her society. When she returns home, she struggles to convince her parents that she, too, made a meaningful contribution to the war. When her father disagrees, she expresses her frustration by tearing down the photographs. However, the 1960s bring positive change: Frankie and other nurses are finally able to join the memorialization of Vietnam veterans. Furthermore, Frankie and the female veterans she supports at her ranch design their own heroes’ wall—complete with polaroids Frankie shot while in service.

Throughout her time in Vietnam, Frankie exchanges pins and other gifts of gratitude with patients. Many pins indicate soldiers’ respective units, symbolizing their camaraderie and pride. Likewise, a Vietnamese boy gives Frankie a stone as a form of payment, but more so as a form of appreciation that transcends their language barrier.