Table of ContentsThe Difficulty of Effective CommunicationThe Symbolism of LandscapeAn Open ConclusionImagine sitting in a bustling cafe in a picturesque European city, sipping a refreshing drink while observing the world that surrounds you. Suddenly, two people catch your attention: a man and a woman engaged in a seemingly banal conversation. Yet as you listen more carefully, you realize there is an underlying tension and weight to their words. This is the essence of Ernest Hemingway's short story, "Hills Like White Elephants." Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay In this gripping story, Hemingway delves into the complexities of communication and decision-making within a relationship. The story follows an American man and a young woman, nicknamed "the girl", as they discuss a decision that could change their lives. Through their dialogue and the symbolism of the landscape, Hemingway highlights the power dynamics and emotional struggles present in their relationship. The Difficulty of Effective Communication One of the central themes of “Hills Like White Elephants” is the inherent difficulty of effective communication. Hemingway masterfully describes this challenge by employing a minimalist writing style. The story consists primarily of dialogue, with minimal description and introspection, leaving much unsaid. This deliberate choice requires readers to actively engage in interpreting the characters' motivations and emotions. The dialogue of the story revolves around a very controversial issue: the possibility of having an abortion. This topic, although never explicitly mentioned, occupies an important place in the characters' conversation. The American tries to convince the young girl to go through with the procedure, by subtly exercising control over her decision. The young girl, for her part, has difficulty expressing her true desires and asserting her independence. Their breakdown in communication is evident in their repetitive use of euphemisms, such as "operation" and "just to let the air in." Landscape Symbolism Hemingway's use of symbolism further reinforces the underlying tension and complexity of the characters' situation. The title itself, “Hills Like White Elephants,” refers to the distant landscape observed by the couple. These hills are described as "like white elephants", a metaphorical representation of the couple's unborn child. Just as white elephants are considered rare and burdensome, the couple views the potential child as an unwanted burden that threatens to derail their carefree lifestyle. The symbolism also extends to the physical setting of the story. The station where the couple waits becomes a metaphorical crossroads, representing the pivotal moment in their relationship. The pieces symbolize the irreversible decision they are about to make, emphasizing the weight and finality of their choices. An Open Ending As readers, we need to think about the importance of the story's open ending. Hemingway intentionally leaves the final decision ambiguous, allowing us to think about the characters' internal struggles and the consequences of their breakdown in communication. This openness invites us to explore the complexity of relationships and the challenges of decision-making. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, “Hills Like White Elephants” is a thought-provoking exploration of.