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Jig's Hidden Strength In Hills Like White Elephants By Ernest Hemingway

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Jig’s Hidden Strength Ernest Hemingway’s short story “Hills Like White Elephants” is a controversial piece of literature, both in content and the way it is written. The piece contains lots of dialogue and symbolism; it is in no way blunt or obvious, not even the ending. It is only through careful observation that it becomes clear that the main characters, an American man and his female companion named Jig, are arguing about an abortion. The story has been interpreted many times, and a multitude of explanations for the ending have been proposed. The only aspect that seems to be agreed upon is “the existing relationship between the American and the girl will deteriorate, or terminate” (Hashmi). A variety of critics interpret the story in a way that portrays Jig as a weak character, willing to give into the American’s wishes in hopes of continuing their relationship. However, this interpretation does not take into …show more content…

Despite its short length, it has inspired much discussion due to its subtleties. Critic Nilofer Hashmi argues that “Hills Like White Elephants” is a “complex portrayal of woman’s, not just Jig’s, final compliance.” However, close examination of the text reveals that Hemingway actually demonstrates Jig’s strength as a character and the way in which she fights for herself and her child. Despite it making more sense for Jig to stay with the American because of all he is able to bestow upon her, as the story progresses, her realization that she wants more than he can provide prompts her to decide to leave the American. Her strength comes through as she makes decision to protect herself and her child. Without this understanding of Jig’s strength, the interpretation of the ending would be turned on its head completely, preventing readers from seeing her true character and leaving them thinking she had the abortion for the American rather than making a decision for herself as well as the

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