In Ernest Hemingway’s short story “Hills Like White Elephants,” the author deftly employs subtlety and implication to convey the complexities of communication between a couple facing a critical decision. The narrative unfolds in a setting that is both stark and beautifully evocative, mirroring the emotional landscape of its characters. Through their dialogue—or often the lack thereof—Hemingway reveals how unspoken words can carry immense weight, shaping relationships and individual identities. This essay will explore how Hemingway’s use of subtlety enhances our understanding of the characters’ conflict and ultimately speaks volumes about human nature.
The Setting as a Reflection of Tension
The story takes place at a train station in Spain, with hills in the background that serve as more than just scenery; they symbolize the underlying tensions between the couple. As they wait for their train, Jig (the female protagonist) gazes at the hills, remarking that they look like white elephants. This imagery is rich with meaning; white elephants are traditionally considered burdensome gifts rather than treasures, foreshadowing her inner conflict regarding pregnancy and impending motherhood.
Hemingway sets up this tension early on by contrasting Jig’s perception of beauty with her partner’s pragmatic view. While she sees potential in those hills, he remains focused on their immediate situation—essentially urging her to consider an abortion. This contrast highlights how different perspectives shape their interaction and foreshadows an inevitable clash between desire and responsibility.
Dialogue: The Art of Implication
One of Hemingway’s hallmarks is his minimalist style—what he famously termed the “Iceberg Theory.” In “Hills Like White Elephants,” much is left unsaid, allowing readers to dive deeper into what lies beneath the surface. For example, when Jig expresses her uncertainty about whether or not to go through with an abortion, she frames it within vague terms: “I don’t care about me.” Her reluctance to articulate her feelings directly emphasizes her emotional struggle; she fears that naming what she wants could alter their relationship irrevocably.
Moreover, much of their conversation revolves around avoiding direct mention of “the operation.” Instead of addressing it head-on, they dance around it like two wary partners in a complex tango. Every statement carries dual meanings: when he says, “It’s really an awfully simple operation,” he minimizes not just the medical procedure but also dismisses Jig’s emotional turmoil attached to it. This subtle manipulation serves to highlight his desire for control while showcasing her vulnerability.
The Power Dynamics at Play
The dynamics between Jig and her partner reflect broader themes in relationships—specifically power struggles over choice and agency. Throughout their conversation, we see him attempt to reassure her by framing abortion as an easy solution: “You’ll be fine afterward.” But what might seem reassuring on one level becomes patronizing when considering that he seems more concerned about maintaining his lifestyle than genuinely caring for Jig’s wellbeing.
This power imbalance manifests itself through body language as well; at times, Jig physically distances herself from him while simultaneously seeking connection—a poignant reflection on their fragile bond. When she says she wants things to be like they used to be—before this dilemma surfaced—it underscores how deeply unsettled she feels by this life-altering decision.
The Significance of Silence
Silence plays a pivotal role in conveying emotions where words fall short. There are moments when neither character speaks; these pauses are filled with unexpressed sentiments simmering just below the surface. For instance, after significant exchanges about having children or not having children pass between them without resolution or agreement—the silence becomes almost deafening.
This intentional absence invites readers into uncomfortable territory where we must grapple with ambiguity alongside Jig and her partner—and perhaps reflects our own experiences in navigating difficult conversations in relationships where stakes are high but clarity may elude us.
Conclusion: The Complexity of Unspoken Words
Through masterful use of subtlety and understatement in “Hills Like White Elephants,” Hemingway opens up profound discussions about choice, identity, love—and ultimately loss—in relationships faced with dilemmas that defy simple solutions or easy resolutions. His characters’ hesitations reveal so much more than overt declarations ever could; every glance exchanged carries emotional gravity rooted deep within unvoiced fears or desires.
This story challenges readers not only to listen closely but also appreciate what goes unsaid—reminding us all that sometimes silence can speak louder than words themselves.
- Hemingway, E. (1927). Hills Like White Elephants.
- Morrisey M., & Simmons J.E., (2018). Subtextual Dialogues: Understanding Hemingway’s Iceberg Theory through Textual Analysis.
- Parker H., (2000). The Language of Silence: Non-verbal Communication in Literature.
- Sullivan A.P., (2015). Between Two Hills: A Study on Symbolism in Hemingway’s Works.
- Katz M.L., (2021). Complicated Conversations: Exploring Gender Dynamics within Hemingway’s Narratives.
