Hills Like White Elephants Setting Analysis

Upon initial interpretation, this story examines the situation between a man and a girl having drinks. The man is attempting to convince the girl to have an operation. The type of operation is never revealed, but after further analyzation one might infer that the couple is discussing an abortion. The setting could be confusing to some because it does not appear to play a major role in the story line; however, after careful consideration, the setting is actually quite significant. Additionally, the setting is rather unique because it is a contributing factor in the comprehension of this intriguing short story. Ernest Hemingway’s “Hills Like White Elephants” is a mysterious short story that initially has an unclear message, but once the setting
The tracks are parallel and seem like they will never meet which is comparable to the initial interpretation of the couple’s respective decision regarding their views on the abortion situation. Initially, the twosome do not see eye-to-eye when it comes to the fate of the baby. Consequently, the girl struggles with whether she wants to keep the baby. A person might conclude that the girl, Jig, wants the baby and the man desires the abortion. The man states, “‘It’s not really an operation at all.’ The girl looked at the ground . . .” (213). The man clearly wants the abortion, but the girl’s silence represents her disapproval. She has to decide whether to keep the relationship or keep the baby. In the end, Jig chooses the abortion which enables the couple to stay together and live parallel lives alongside one another. The man informs the girl, “‘I’d better take the bags to the other side of the station’” (215). Due to the fact that the man took multiple bags, it is assumed that he is taking his as well as her bags and therefore, the couple will not be separated. Ultimately, the pair’s unanimous decision allows their paths to run parallel and continue side-by-side similar to the train tracks. Another factor involving the train is not merely the tracks, but also the
The station, located at a point between Barcelona and Madrid, is where each main character has to determine their destination, not just physically, but in their relationship as well. The short story describes the route the train travels, “…the express from Barcelona would come in forty minutes. It stopped at this junction for two minutes and went on to Madrid” (212). The man has to decide whether or not he wants to continue with the relationship or leave the girl and the potential baby. Conversely, the girl has to decide if the relationship is worth giving up the baby. When she decides to get on the train with him, Jig is agreeing to have the abortion and continue to the next destination together. Not only does the setting of the station lie in the middle of two places, but the scenery surrounding the station is also a component which aids in visualizing the message of the