What is the function of the Linda plot in the lives of the dead Consider in particular?

In "The Lives of the Dead," the Linda plot serves as a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the enduring impact of love. Linda, a character who represents Tim O’Brien’s youthful experiences and emotional connections, highlights how storytelling can bridge the gap between the living and the dead. Through her narrative, O’Brien illustrates how memories keep the deceased alive in the minds of the living, emphasizing the power of stories to confront grief and maintain connection beyond death. Ultimately, the Linda plot reinforces the theme that love and memory are central to the human experience, even in the face of mortality.