VLVL 4: War, politics and love

[jbor]

on 2/9/03 4:08 AM, Terrance wrote:

> "Bush Vet" is both a Veterinarian and Vietnam Vet.
> 
> I think the ambiguity is deliberate.
> 
> I've decided to look at work, partnerships, business contracts and the
> like  this time around and so I'm leaning toward the bush veterinarian
> reading. RC's part is so tiny, but I think that as a Vietnam Bush Vet he
> maps onto other characters like Vato & Blood, Ortho Bob, Shorty. As a
> Vineland Farmer and ex-60's guy, possibly a Veterinarian who did some
> time in prison, he has changed his name (I appreciate your explanation
> for why how his name change relates to his service in Vietnam but I
> disagree with it).
> 
> His name change is consistent with other business purpose name changes.
> 
> What about BH? Why does he call himself BH? Is he the owner? Or the
> night manager? Or both?
> 
> I realize that "Bush Vet"  (Bush Veterinarian)  is not as common in
> California as in other places, like Australia, and that you think you
> misread P's use of the phrase the first time through.

Yes, the phrase "bush vet" for a veterinarian who works in a rural area
would be standard informal usage here in Australia, for a returned Vietnam
soldier not so. But I think the opposite is the case in the U.S., so I lean
towards the Vietnam vet reading on that basis. But I agree that it's not an
important issue.

I also think your point about "so much for free love" in relation to RC's
reaction to Zoyd in the bar was a good one. Those two are hippies in name
only.

best