In Johnny Got His Gun, a nurse gave Joe a hand job while attempting to understand or perhaps stimulate him. This act was deeply unsettling and unsexual for Joe, leaving him feeling ashamed.
Context of Joe's Condition
Joe Bonham, the protagonist of Dalton Trumbo's powerful anti-war novel, is a severely wounded soldier. He has lost his arms, legs, sight, hearing, and ability to speak, essentially becoming a torso and head. Trapped within his own mind, he struggles to communicate with the outside world, and the medical staff, including the nurses, are largely unaware that he is conscious and fully coherent.
The Nurse's Actions and Joe's Reaction
As the nurses cared for Joe, they often tried various methods to elicit a response or simply attend to his physical needs. One particular incident involved a nurse who, perhaps out of curiosity, desperation, or an attempt to stimulate a reaction, moved her hand to Joe's genital area.
- The Act: Joe noticed a distinct change in the nurse's touch as her hand wandered down to his crotch.
- Joe's Perception: From Joe's perspective, this interaction was far from sexual. It was described as an "unsexiest hand job," highlighting the complete lack of intimacy, desire, or understanding on both sides.
- Joe's Shame: The experience left Joe feeling profound shame, as he was horrified by the thought that the nurse might believe this was what he wanted or needed, given his helpless state. His inability to communicate his disgust and shame further isolated him.
Broader Implications
This incident underscores the profound isolation and dehumanization Joe experiences. Despite his full consciousness and internal life, he is treated as a mere physical shell, leading to moments like this where his personal boundaries and dignity are violated without his consent or even awareness from the perpetrator's side. It serves as a stark reminder of the devastating psychological impact of war injuries, extending beyond the physical mutilation to the complete loss of autonomy and human connection.
The table below summarizes the key aspects of the nurse's action:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Nurse's Intention | Unclear; possibly attempting stimulation, assessment, or an ill-conceived effort to help Joe. |
| Joe's Experience | Felt a distinct change in touch, perceived as a non-sexual, humiliating "hand job." |
| Joe's Emotional State | Deep shame and the belief that the nurse thought he desired the act, exacerbating his sense of helplessness. |
This encounter is a poignant moment in Johnny Got His Gun, emphasizing the horrifying reality of Joe's existence and the challenges of caring for individuals with such profound disabilities without understanding their internal state.
