I think that the element of the story that is least related tot he author's biographical story is the C. SMELL OF MILDEW IN A VIETNAMESE VILLAGE.
Tim O'brien wrote the story using his personal experiences. He was sent to Vietnam in his tour of duty. He's familiar with the geography of the Vietnamese coastline, he vividly describes the climate and landscape, and he feels the fear that the soldier felt during wartime.
Do writing exercises. A poem might start as a snippet of a verse, a line or two that seems to come out of nowhere, or an image you cannot get out of your head. ...Get inspired by your environment and those close to you. ...Pick a specific theme or idea. ...Choose a poetic form. ...Read examples of poetry.