Drummer Boy Of Shiloh By Ray Bradbury

     One of the themes of "The Drummer Boy Of Shiloh" by Ray Bradbury is have self-confidence. The theme of confidence is referenced many times in the story,  mainly involving the General encouraging the main character, Joby, to believe in himself because he is the "heart of the army." The General persuades Joby to love  the position he was given, to not fear or hate it. The General tells him that by beating the drum at a fast pace, the hearts of the soldiers would beat fast, and they would fight harder and not die. He also tells Joby that he is the "General when the general is left behind." Hearing the General's speech, Joby grows more confident in himself, and he learns to respect his position. Self-confidence can be very important. For example, the General tells Joby that if he has confidence, so will the army. Joby's confidence can save thousands of soldiers from dying.

     I don't have loads of self-confidence. Sometimes I wonder why I'm even here, and frequently wish that I was someone else. But I have friends who tell me to be more confident in myself, who reassure me, and this reassurance, much like the General's, can make a person feel strong.