A RESEARCH PAPER PRESENTED
IN
PARTIAL FULFILLMENT FOR THE
COURSE ENGLISH 3H
BY
Michael Wang
Fishing and Fighting for Dreams
Mrs. Carmody
Period 8
April 16, 2012 Wang 2 Many authors, critics, and everyday social readers define Ernest Hemingway as the prime example of 20th century American literature. Hemingway’s works transcend time itself, so that even readers today analyze and criticize his works. His works, of course, have drawn praises and animosity from all corners of the globe. Critics often applause Hemingway on his short simple prose, for which many people recognize him for. His writing builds upon the masterful usage of “short, simple words and short, simple sentences” (Wagner, 3) to create clear and easy to understand pieces of art, so that even the simple everyday reader can enjoy his art. One may even say that “no other novelist … [has] had an equivalent influence on the prose” of today’s modern writing (Young, 39). Naturally, while supporters exist, so do the debunkers. They say that Hemingway’s prose “is too limited … [making his] characters mute, insensitive, uncomplicated men (Weeks, 1)” in society. The simplicity of his writing strips away the information that a reader may interpret, which fuels the debate that Hemingway utilizes no creativity in his writings; everything simply presents itself as it truly represents. From the very first time Hemingway embarked on his historic writing journey, he exhibits through his written works and actions how a “hero” should conduct himself/herself. Hemingway often partook in hunting, fishing, and could be seen attending Spanish bullfights. Hemingway uses these experiences, and the ones he gained from World War II to enhance his already superb writing. Admirers often praise Hemingway for how he believes a man should live his life, and how he also emulates this belief in his characters by “tying the life of the hero to [Hemingway himself]” (Young, 41). These lauders praise Hemingway on