Hills Like White Elephants Response Essay

Ernest Hemingway was an iconic American author whose writing style and life experiences have influenced generations of writers and readers. Born in 1899 in Oak Park, Illinois, Hemingway became one of the most celebrated writers of the 20th century, known for his concise and straightforward writing style, his portrayal of the human condition, and his exploration of themes of war, love, and loss. Hemingway's experiences as a journalist, soldier, and expatriate informed his writing, which is characterized by spare prose, vivid imagery, and themes of stoicism and masculinity. His literary contributions have been recognized by many, with him winning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954.

Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants" delves into the

The dialogue between the two characters is often indirect and elusive, reflecting their struggle to communicate their true feelings and intentions to each other. According to scholar Xiaomin Wang, who wrote extensively on the topics of miscommunication within this story, “However, from the very first moments, one can tell that neither listens to the other and poor listening and communication is going on which worsens the existing crisis in their life. Jig notes that the hills behind the train station "...look like white elephants'' and when her boyfriend states he has never seen a white elephant, she responds rudely." Jig's comment about the hills looking like white elephants is a subtle attempt to initiate a conversation about her pregnancy, but the man fails to recognize this and instead responds in a dismissive manner. This lack of attentiveness on his part highlights the significant communication gap between the couple, and it is clear that they are not truly engaging with each other or making an effort to understand each other's perspectives. Jig's rudeness suggests a deep-seated frustration with the man's inability to hear her, and this tension only adds to the overall sense of unease and uncertainty in the

The lack of clear communication creates tension and frustration between the two characters, as they both seem to be talking past each other rather than engaging in a productive dialogue. The story illustrates the importance of open and honest communication in a relationship, and the consequences that can arise when partners are unable or unwilling to communicate effectively. By highlighting the complexities of this situation, Hemingway emphasizes the need for mutual respect and understanding in a relationship, particularly when making difficult decisions. The symbols used by Hemingway throughout the story underscore the tension and conflict of the story, highlighting the difficult decision that the couple must make and the uncertainty of their future. The symbols also reflect the larger themes of the story, including communication, power dynamics, and the consequences of difficult