Ernest Hemingway's short story "Hills Like White Elephants" is a dialogue-driven tale that revolves around a conversation between a man and a woman, who are referred to only as "the American" and "the girl," respectively. Set in a train station in Spain, the story explores the couple's dynamic as they discuss a topic that is left ambiguous throughout the text: whether or not the girl should get an abortion.
The story opens with the couple sitting outside at a table, enjoying the scenery and drinks. The girl looks at the distant hills and comments on how they look like white elephants, and the American responds by saying that he has never seen one. This exchange sets the tone for the rest of the story, as the girl's observation is met with a dismissive and casual response from the American, foreshadowing the power dynamic between the two characters.
As the conversation progresses, it becomes clear that the girl is hesitant about going through with the procedure, while the American is more insistent on it. He tries to persuade her by saying that it is not really an abortion and that it is a simple operation that will not affect her health or future fertility. The girl, however, remains uncertain and expresses her concerns about the procedure.
Throughout the conversation, the girl tries to broach the topic of their relationship and their future together, but the American deflects these attempts and avoids committing to any long-term plans. This further highlights the power imbalance between the two characters, as the American holds all the cards and is able to dictate the terms of their relationship and the girl's reproductive choices.
The story ends with the couple still at an impasse, with the girl saying, "I feel fine. It's all perfectly natural." This statement can be seen as a sign of resignation, as the girl seems to be accepting the situation despite her reservations.
In "Hills Like White Elephants," Hemingway uses the conversation between the American and the girl to explore the theme of communication and its role in relationships. Through their dialogue, we see the different perspectives and agendas of the two characters, as well as the power dynamics at play. The story also touches upon the themes of choice, responsibility, and commitment, as the couple grapples with the decision of whether or not to have an abortion and what it would mean for their relationship. Overall, "Hills Like White Elephants" is a poignant and thought-provoking story that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the importance of honest and open communication.