How many stories are in this book?

[Cora]

I have just finished reading this book. At first, I was completley a drift, trying to figure out what the main character, Paul Berlin was thinking. He is extremely sensitive to the emotions of the people around him pertaining to his character. Meaning, he is worried about what others think of him. Although he is an interesting character, that is not what I want to talk about.

This book has been a very heated topic of discussion in my highschool CIS class. We have been looking at "postmodern" lenses and so far have found this extremely interesting and difficult to explain. Therefore, when we discuss the number of stories held withing this single text, we are all lost to our own opinions.

That is why I ask you, readers, how many stories are within this book? It is argued that there is in fact three. Meaning that one story involves Paul Berlin's War experiences, the second is Paul's night at the Observation post, and the third is when Paul talks about chasing the elusive Cacciato.

Then it is argued that it is two. Meaning that the war experience and Paul's time at the Observation post is put together to form one story (Basically Paul Berlin's timeline, from past to present, in the war). The second story is the alternative ending to Berlin's present one, chasing Cacciato to Paris.

Lastly, it is argued that it is simply a single story. ALl taking place in the Observatino post as Paul Berlin remembers everything in the past, and makes up a new present.

See what I mean? It turns my head in circles. I am eager to hear your take on things. Thank you
~Cora