In "The Things They Carried," the objects the soldiers bring from home change meaning as their experiences change. Comfort becomes paramount in the harsh environment of Vietnam, so Kiowa uses the New Testament he brought with him as a pillow. The book changes from a source of spiritual guidance to an object used to enhance Kiowa's physical comfort and help him to sleep.

Lieutenant Cross has brought letters with him, which he wishes were love letters but in fact only express the friendship and concern of Martha, the girl he loves. At the beginning of the story, these letters are reminders of her and of his life at home, but their meaning changes abruptly after the death of Lavender. At this point, Cross sees the letters as symbols of his dereliction of duty, his fatal failure to look after his men. He therefore feels compelled to burn the letters, even though he admits to himself that this is a stupid, sentimental gesture.