Literary Modernism Is Often Associated With Highly Symbolic

Literary Modernism Is Often Associated With A Highly Symbolic Portraya

Literary Modernism is often associated with a highly symbolic portrayal of human experience, including people's thoughts and emotions, through the use of concrete, visual images. Analyze the symbolism contained in Hemingway's “Hills Like White Elephants” in order to uncover the story's possible thematic meaning(s). For instance, consider carefully images such as the setting between two rail lines; the dry, barren hills; the green fields of grain and trees; the suggestion of “white elephants” (something both precious and useless in some Eastern cultures); the images of alcohol, etc. How do these visual symbols and images help a reader understand the man, the woman, and the nature of their conflict?

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Introduction

Ernest Hemingway’s “Hills Like White Elephants” exemplifies the core principles of literary Modernism through its use of rich symbolism and minimalist narrative. The story explores complex themes such as communication, choice, and the underlying tensions in a relationship against a backdrop of vivid imagery. By analyzing the symbolic elements—such as the setting, the imagery of white elephants, and the depiction of alcohol—the reader gains insight into the characters’ internal conflicts and the thematic tensions that drive the narrative.

The Symbolism of Setting and Environment

The geographical imagery in the story plays a pivotal role in representing the characters' psychological states and the central conflict. The setting between two railway tracks symbolizes decision points and divergent paths that the characters face. The station’s location suggests transition and uncertainty—mirroring the couple’s predicament regarding abortion. The barren, dry hills contrasted with the lush, green fields of grain symbolize the dichotomy between life’s vitality and sterility, reflecting the emotional divide and the potential consequences of the choice before them.

The railway tracks themselves serve as a literal and metaphorical crossing, highlighting the tension between movement forward and stagnation. Their position between two lines implies a crossroads, emphasizing themes of choice and fate. Hemingway's sparse descriptions leave much unsaid, requiring the reader to interpret the environment as a projection of the characters’ internal dilemmas.

The Significance of the “White Elephants” and Other Imagery

The phrase “white elephants” originates from Eastern cultures where such animals are considered sacred but also burdensome due to their upkeep. In the story, the “white elephant” symbolizes the pregnancy or the potential abortion—an element that is valuable but also a source of burden and conflict. The woman perceives the pregnancy as a weight that could complicate her life, whereas the man appears to see it as a manageable issue. The ambiguity surrounding this symbol allows the narrative to explore themes of value, uselessness, and the burden of choice.

Hemingway also employs the imagery of alcohol—specifically, the drinks at the bar—to symbolize escapism and avoidance. The characters’ drinking serves as a distraction from discussing their true feelings, underscoring the difficulty of open communication. The mundane setting of the bar contrasts with the profound, emotional stakes of their conversation, emphasizing the suppression of authentic dialogue and emotional truth.

The Depiction of the Man and Woman Through Symbols

The man is often seen as pragmatic and detached, valuing practicality over emotion. His calmness and insistence on proceeding with the operation reflect a desire to maintain control and avoid emotional turmoil. The woman, on the other hand, exhibits ambivalence and internal conflict, symbolized by her initial hope and later apprehension. Her hesitation in discussing the pregnancy signifies the emotional complexity of her situation, and her gaze across the hills suggests longing or perhaps a subconscious awareness of the irreversible decision she faces.

The interaction between the characters, viewed through visual symbols, reveals their differing viewpoints and emotional states. The man’s detachment and calm demeanor symbolize a collaborative outlook focused on problem-solving, while the woman’s internal turmoil hints at her deeper emotional resistance and fear.

Thematic Implications of the Symbols

The symbolism in “Hills Like White Elephants” underscores the overarching theme of communication and miscommunication. The characters’ inability to articulate their true feelings signifies a breakdown in understanding, echoing Modernist concerns about the fragmentation of human relationships. The natural imagery—drought, fertile fields, the hills—serves as a reflection of the characters’ inner emotional landscapes, emphasizing themes of life, fertility, and mortality.

Furthermore, the symbols illustrate the ambiguity of choices and their consequences. The “white elephant” encapsulates a decision that appears to be burdensome yet also holds potential for renewal or tragedy, depending on how it is navigated. Hemingway’s use of visual imagery invites the reader to interpret the characters’ conflict on multiple levels—psychological, emotional, and societal—highlighting Modernism’s focus on the complexity and multifaceted nature of human experience.

Conclusion

Hemingway’s “Hills Like White Elephants” exemplifies Modernist symbolism through its stark yet evocative imagery and minimalistic dialogue. The setting, symbols such as the white elephant and alcohol, and the characters’ interactions collectively reveal a nuanced portrayal of internal conflict, communication, and decision-making. The story’s rich symbolism invites readers to explore the underlying thematic concerns of human vulnerability, the burden of choices, and the elusive nature of true understanding, embodying the core artistic principles of Literary Modernism.

References

1. Hemingway, Ernest. “Hills Like White Elephants.” The Complete Works of Ernest Hemingway, vol. 1, Scribner, 1987.
2. Bradbury, Malcolm. Modernist Literature. Oxford University Press, 2004.
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4. Levenson, Michael. The Cambridge Companion to Modernist Literature. Cambridge University Press, 2007.
5. Iyengar, Pastor. Shaping Modernism: The Politics of Literary Innovation. Johns Hopkins University Press, 1993.
6. Friedman, Susan. “Symbolism in Modernist Literature.” Journal of Modern Literature, vol. 29, no. 2, 2006, pp. 45-62.
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