In a recent review of Matterhorn for the New Statesman, David Flusfeder remarked that its author, Karl Marlantes, "is entirely convincing on the mess of war, tropically damp, teeming with disease, in a world criss-crossed by dividing lines that have little to do with the notional enemy". This authenticity no doubt originates from Marlantes's own experience in Vietnam, upon which he reflected in the Books Interview in this week's magazine.

Marlantes also suggested that Matterhorn's extraordinary reception in the United States can be ascribed to the parallels between Vietnam and the current conflct in Afghanistan.

In this video, Marlantes touches on the role he hopes Matterhorn might play in healing an Amercan society divided by conflict, and on the enlightening power of literature in general.