"Hills Like White Elephants" is a short story by Ernest Hemingway that was published in 1927. The story is set in a train station in Spain, where an American man and a young woman, known only as the "girl," are having a conversation. The conversation centers around a "very simple operation" that the girl is considering having, and the man is trying to persuade her to go through with it.
The story is told through dialogue, with very little narration or background information given. This creates a sense of ambiguity and tension between the two characters. The girl seems hesitant and unsure about the operation, while the man is more confident and insistent. He tries to convince her that it is the right thing to do, and that it will not change their relationship or their future plans. However, the girl seems to be struggling with her decision, and the reader is left to infer what the operation is and what its consequences might be.
One of the most striking aspects of "Hills Like White Elephants" is the use of symbolism and imagery. The title itself refers to a conversation the girl has with the man about the hills in the distance, which she says look like white elephants. This metaphor is often interpreted as a symbol for the girl's pregnancy, with the "operation" representing an abortion. This interpretation is supported by the use of other symbols, such as the train station, which represents the crossroads where the characters are at in their relationship, and the beer and liquor they drink, which can be seen as symbols of their attempts to numb their emotions and avoid the issue at hand.
Another important aspect of the story is the use of dialogue and character development. Hemingway uses very sparse, straightforward language, and the characters' conversations are often indirect and vague. This reflects the characters' inability to communicate openly and honestly with each other about their feelings and the situation they are in. The man, in particular, seems to be avoiding the topic and trying to manipulate the girl into making a decision that he wants. This creates a sense of distance and lack of connection between the two characters, and highlights the difficulties they are facing in their relationship.
Overall, "Hills Like White Elephants" is a powerful and thought-provoking story that explores themes of communication, relationships, and the consequences of difficult decisions. Through its use of symbolism, imagery, and character development, Hemingway creates a sense of tension and ambiguity that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
