Hills Like White Elephants

Even though abortion is never mentioned directly in this story, it is clearly what the couple are discussing. How does Hemingway communicate that to the reader without saying so directly, and why does the author use this indirection?

At the end of the story, Jig says, “There’s nothing wrong with me. I feel fine” (77). Is Jig fine at the end of the story? Can the reader be sure? Cite at least three points of textual evidence to support your claim.

At first, Jig is referred to only as “the girl,” although her name appears later. The man is introduced as “the American” and remains unnamed. Why does Hemingway omit the man’s name? What is the significance of this choice?

Why does Hemingway set this story in Spain, even though the man is an American and Jig, who doesn’t speak the language, is apparently Anglo as well?

In the end, do you think that Jig decides to get the abortion? Why do you think so, and why do you think she makes such a choice? In addition to your basic rationale, cite at least three details from the story that support your interpretation.

What does Jig mean when she says, “Everything tastes of liquorice. Especially all the things you’ve waited so long for, like absinthe” (71)? In your answer, explore the potential symbolism of absinthe and how it pertains to the story as a whole. You may address the other alcoholic drinks as well (e.g., Anis del Toro).

When Jig compares the landscape to white elephants, the man not only does not see the parallel but seems unable to entertain the idea that he could see it, since he’s never seen a white elephant in real life. This interaction highlights the tension between these two characters that will continue throughout the story. How would you characterize that tension, and what other forms does it take in the story? Address at least three examples.

Why does the narration describe Jig as “the girl” and her partner as “the man?” What effect does this have on a reader’s understanding of their relationship? What point is Hemingway trying to make?