While Joe is physically immobilized by his injuries, his mind remains active. What tactics does he use to orientate himself and maintain his sanity? What roles do his dreams, memories, and fantasies play?

Christian symbolism appears in the novel through the figure of Jesus and his suffering. How does this symbolism illustrate some of the novel’s key themes? How does it relate to Joe’s own characterization?

Trauma, in both physical and mental forms, is dominant in Joe’s experiences throughout Johnny Got His Gun. How does the novel depict the nature of trauma, especially war-related trauma?