The Power of Minimalism in Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants"

Ernest Hemingway's writing style and use of the iceberg theory have made a significant impact on modern literature. Hemingway's unique technique involves using minimalistic language to convey a deeper meaning, leaving much of the story's interpretation to the reader's imagination. "Hills Like White Elephants" is a prime example of Hemingway's use of the iceberg theory, where he conveys the theme of communication breakdown in a relationship through his minimalist style.

The story's setting is a train station in Spain, where a couple waits for their train. Throughout the story, the couple's dialogue is minimal, with short and clipped sentences. They avoid discussing the issue directly and dance around the topic, never acknowledging the elephant in the room. The man tries to convince the girl to have an abortion using euphemisms, while the girl expresses her reservations without directly stating them. This dialogue leaves much of the story's interpretation to the reader's imagination, allowing them to infer the true nature of the couple's conversation.

The setting of the story also adds another layer of complexity to the story. The landscape outside the train station is described as dry and barren, with hills that resemble white elephants. This imagery serves as a metaphor for the couple's situation. The hills represent the unwanted and burdensome aspect of their relationship, just as the potential pregnancy represents an unwanted burden. The barren landscape suggests a sense of emptiness and emotional distance between the couple, further reinforcing the theme of communication breakdown.

Another way in which Hemingway employs the iceberg theory in "Hills Like White Elephants" is through the power dynamic between the man and the girl. The man is dominant and controlling, making all of the decisions for the couple. He orders drinks for the two of them and speaks for the girl, often interrupting her when she tries to speak. The girl, on the other hand, is submissive and passive, allowing the man to control the conversation and make the decision for her. Hemingway provides minimal information about their relationship, but the reader can infer that the man holds the power in the relationship based on his dominant behavior.

The story's conclusion is open-ended, leaving the reader to infer the couple's decision about the abortion. The story does not provide a clear resolution, leaving the reader to imagine what may happen to the couple in the future. This open-ended conclusion is another way in which Hemingway employs the iceberg theory, leaving much of the story's interpretation to the reader's imagination.

The theme of communication breakdown in a relationship is an important one that continues to resonate with readers today. Hemingway's minimalist style in "Hills Like White Elephants" emphasizes the significance of effective communication in a relationship. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of avoiding difficult conversations and the importance of addressing issues directly.

In conclusion, Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants" is a powerful example of the iceberg theory in storytelling. Hemingway's minimalist style allows the reader to infer the true nature of the couple's conversation, emphasizing the theme of communication breakdown in a relationship. The story's setting, power dynamic, and open-ended conclusion further reinforce this theme. Hemingway's writing style continues to inspire and influence modern literature, making him one of the most significant literary figures of the 20th century.