When I first read the title I was expecting more of an uplifting tale, but after reading the story I was obviously way off the mark. The story is about a man and a woman who are considering an abortion. I think the "white elephant" in title of this story represents the unique situation of an unplanned pregnancy. The couple must think about how their lives will be affected and they must also think about the life of the unborn child. This presents a very difficult decision for Jig because it ultimately is her body and her decision.
The story takes place at a train station. To me the train station is a symbol of the change taking place in the lives of two individuals This story is full of symbolism that eludes to the inner conflict that the women is feeling. Hemingway describes the setting as"Across, on the other side, were the fields of grain and trees along the banks of the Ebro. Far away, beyond the river, were mountains. The shadow of a cloud moved across the field of grain and she saw the river through the trees." I feel this relates to what this women is feeling, the fields of grain and the river represent the new life developing inside of her , while the cloud passing over them represent the burden of bearing the child. The man in this story is doing everything he can to convince her to have the operation while the woman is obviously torn about the situation. Hemingway does not tell us whether she undergoes the operation. I feel that in doing this he provokes further thought about the issue.
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I had similar thought on this and great overall analysis, hmm the thought of elephants so seem to bring something happy to minds. I did think it was going to be something more colorfull however I guess a new life is colorfull, I didnt quite know what the operation was for but now its make much more sense..i think u are on to something bigger =]
ReplyDeleteYes, you're both on track with the perception that the story is chock-full of symbolism, the contrasts of life (potential) with the emptiness/lack of vitality in their relationship being one issue. It is ironic that that there is something childlike and wistful in the image of the white elehant; remember, this is from Jig's POV, so, this conveys something of the emotioinal complexity of her situation... The study sheet for this story will give you some other things to think about
ReplyDeleteWow, well written. The story makes more sense to me after reading your blog.. I was so confused and did not know what they were talking about.. But one thing still confuses me if Jig is pregant then why is she drinking?? Isnt it harmful to drink during pregancy?? Does this show us myabe she will get the obortion apparently it doesnt seem like a person would want their baby and harm it the same time
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