"Hills Like White Elephants" is a short story by Ernest Hemingway that explores the conflict between a man and a woman as they discuss a potential abortion while waiting for a train at a Spanish station. The story is known for its use of dialogue and lack of narration, which allows the reader to infer the emotions and motivations of the characters through their words and actions.
The central conflict in the story is the disagreement between the man and the woman about whether or not to have an abortion. The man, who is not named in the story, wants the woman, Jig, to have the abortion so that they can continue their relationship without the burden of a child. Jig, on the other hand, is hesitant and unsure about what to do.
Throughout the conversation, the man tries to convince Jig to have the abortion by downplaying the procedure and minimizing the emotional impact it will have on her. He tells her that it is "just to let the air in" and that it is "not really an operation at all." He also tries to appeal to Jig's desire for a carefree and adventurous lifestyle, saying that having a child would "just be the start of a whole lot of trouble."
Jig, however, is not convinced and expresses her hesitation and discomfort with the idea. She says, "I feel fine. It's all perfectly simple." This suggests that she is trying to reassure herself and avoid facing the reality of the situation. She also mentions that she does not want to "get rid of it," implying that she has some level of attachment to the potential child.
The conflict between the man and Jig is further complicated by their underlying feelings and desires. The man is clearly more focused on maintaining his freedom and independence, while Jig seems to be struggling with her own desires and what is best for her. The tension between these conflicting desires is palpable in their conversation, as they try to find a solution that will satisfy both of them.
In the end, it is unclear whether or not Jig decides to have the abortion. However, the story ends with Jig looking at the hills in the distance and saying, "They look like white elephants." This is a metaphor for the abortion, as the hills are a symbol of the difficult decision that Jig must make. The metaphor also suggests that the abortion is a burden or a weight that Jig must carry, much like a white elephant.
Overall, "Hills Like White Elephants" is a powerful exploration of the complex and often difficult conflicts that can arise in relationships. It highlights the importance of communication and understanding in resolving these conflicts and the difficulties that can arise when trying to balance personal desires with the needs of others.
"Hills Like White Elephants," a short story by Ernest Hemingway, is a dialogue between a man and a woman, Jig and the American, who are traveling through Spain. The story is set in a train station, where the couple sits at a bar and engages in a tense conversation about a crucial decision they must make.
At the heart of the story is the conflict between Jig and the American over whether or not Jig should have an abortion. The American is urging Jig to have the procedure, while Jig is hesitant and uncertain about what she wants.
Throughout the conversation, the American tries to convince Jig that having an abortion is the best course of action. He tells her that the procedure is simple and safe, and that it will allow them to continue their carefree lifestyle without the burden of a child. He also implies that he will leave her if she decides to keep the baby, saying "I'll go with you and I'll stay with you all the time. They just let the air in and then it's all perfectly natural."
Jig, on the other hand, is unsure about whether or not she wants to go through with the abortion. She is hesitant to make a decision, and she tries to find ways to delay the conversation by talking about the landscape and the hills that resemble white elephants. She also expresses her concerns about the procedure and its potential consequences, saying "It's really an awfully simple operation, Jig. It's not really an operation at all."
As the conversation continues, the conflict between Jig and the American becomes more and more apparent. The American is pushy and insistent, while Jig is hesitant and unsure. The power dynamic between them is also clear, with the American holding more control and trying to sway Jig's decision.
Ultimately, the resolution to the conflict is left ambiguous. We don't know whether or not Jig decides to have the abortion, but we do see the strain that the decision has put on their relationship. The couple's conversation is laced with tension and undercurrents of anger and resentment, and it's clear that their decision will have far-reaching consequences for their future together.
"Hills Like White Elephants" is a poignant and evocative story that explores the complexities of relationships, decision-making, and the weight of personal choices. Through its spare and understated dialogue, Hemingway captures the tension and uncertainty that often surrounds difficult decisions, and he leaves it up to the reader to decide how the conflict will ultimately be resolved.
