Question

the knowledge of death, of the implacable limits placed on a mans existence, severed us from our youth as irrevocably as a surgeons scissors had once severed us from the womb. and yet, few of us were past twenty - five. we left vietnam peculiar creatures, with young shoulders that bore rather old heads. - a rumor of war, philip caputo
identify the paradox in the passage.
severed youth who were severed from the womb
living men who have knowledge of death
young men who have old minds

Explanation:

A paradox is a statement that seems contradictory but may hold truth. "Young men who have old minds" juxtaposes youth (associated with newness, inexperience) with having "old minds" (suggesting wisdom, weariness, or maturity beyond years), creating a paradoxical image.

Answer:

young men who have old minds