The Absence of the Pregnancy as a Central Topic: Hemingway’s Technique of Omission

In Hills Like White Elephants, Hemingway employs his signature technique of omission—often referred to as the Iceberg Theory—to convey the central conflict of the story. The pregnancy, which is at the heart of the narrative, is never directly mentioned, and the word “abortion” is never used. This lack of explicit discussion forces readers to engage with the unspoken tension between the characters, making the story a powerful exploration of emotional complexity, indirect communication, and subtext.

The Power of What’s Left Unsaid

The absence of direct references to the pregnancy forces readers to read between the lines. By avoiding explicit mention of the issue, Hemingway invites the reader to consider the emotional weight of the situation. The characters’ indirect references to the procedure and their inability to discuss it openly create an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. This omission serves as a commentary on the difficulty of discussing sensitive issues, especially in relationships, and the emotional complexity that comes with major life decisions.

Subtext and Psychological Depth

Hemingway’s use of omission enhances the psychological depth of the characters. Rather than telling the reader exactly what the characters are thinking or feeling, Hemingway lets their actions, words, and silences speak for themselves. The subtext of the dialogue reveals the internal conflicts each character faces. The American man’s attempts to downplay the situation reflect his emotional detachment, while Jig’s hesitations reveal her deeper emotional turmoil. This method of storytelling allows Hemingway to explore the complexities of human emotion without overt exposition.

The Effect of Omission on Character Development

The absence of a direct discussion about the pregnancy also reflects the emotional distance between the characters. The fact that they cannot discuss such a significant issue openly suggests that their relationship is strained, and both characters are reluctant to confront the true nature of their bond. Hemingway’s choice to leave the issue unspoken also emphasizes the power of silence in the story, allowing the reader to draw conclusions about the characters’ emotional states and their inability to communicate effectively.

Conclusion

Hemingway’s technique of omission in Hills Like White Elephants creates a powerful narrative that engages readers through subtext, silence, and psychological depth. The absence of direct discussion about the pregnancy allows the story’s emotional tension to build beneath the surface, inviting readers to engage with the complexity of the characters’ internal struggles. This technique underscores the difficulty of communication and the emotional weight of life-altering decisions