Hills Like White Elephants

Definition

Hills Like White Elephants is a short story by Ernest Hemingway that showcases the complex dialogue between a couple discussing an unnamed procedure, widely interpreted as an abortion. The story is rich in symbolism and captures the tension in their relationship, revealing themes of communication and choice through subtle narrative techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The story is set in a train station in Spain, which serves as a symbolic crossroads for the couple's relationship and decision-making.
2. Hemingway's use of sparse prose reflects the emotional distance between the characters, enhancing the story's themes of miscommunication.
3. The title itself symbolizes the contrast between the hills, which can be seen as burdensome or beautiful, paralleling the couple's differing views on their situation.
4. The character of Jig expresses ambivalence about her pregnancy, showcasing her inner conflict and desire for connection versus her fear of losing freedom.
5. The male character, known simply as 'the American', represents a more pragmatic approach, pushing for the procedure while failing to understand Jig's emotional turmoil.

Review Questions

• How does Hemingway's use of dialogue in 'Hills Like White Elephants' reflect the underlying tension between the couple?
  • Hemingway's dialogue is terse and fragmented, mirroring the couple's inability to communicate openly about their feelings regarding the pregnancy. The back-and-forth exchanges reveal their emotional distance and differing perspectives. While Jig seeks emotional support and understanding, the American focuses on practicality, showcasing how their communication ultimately leads to further misunderstanding.
• Analyze the significance of the setting in 'Hills Like White Elephants' and how it contributes to the overall themes of the story.
  • The train station setting symbolizes a crossroads where significant life choices are made. It reflects the transitional nature of their relationship and the impending decision about Jig's pregnancy. This liminal space heightens the tension between the couple as they navigate their options while waiting for a train, representing both hope for new beginnings and fear of irrevocable change.
• Evaluate how Hemingway’s use of symbolism enhances the reader's understanding of Jig’s internal conflict throughout 'Hills Like White Elephants'.
  • Hemingway’s use of symbolism, particularly in references to the hills and their comparison to white elephants, deepens our understanding of Jig's internal struggle. The hills represent burdens that can be viewed as beautiful yet overwhelming. This duality reflects Jig’s conflicting feelings about motherhood and autonomy. By employing such symbolism, Hemingway invites readers to explore deeper emotional layers, illustrating how personal choices can be fraught with complexity and consequence.

Related terms

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, often used in literature to convey deeper meanings beyond the literal sense.

Dialogue:

The written conversational exchange between characters, which can reveal their thoughts, emotions, and conflicts.

Subtext:

The underlying meaning or message in a conversation or text that is not explicitly stated, often reflecting the characters' true feelings.