Comparing Story Of An Hour 'And Hills Like White Elephants'

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Recommended: Ernest Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants" carries a primary theme of

A. The Story of an Hour and Hills Like White Elephants contain symbolism and imagery that combined with their themes focuses on one word; freedom. Chopin makes use of the repressive role that marriage played in women’s lives leading to the use of oppression and sadness as symbols of love. Hemingway conveys his words through subtext leaving its interpretation to one’s own devices through the use symbols and imagery for a clearer picture II. Chopin’s use of symbolism, imagery and themes A. Symbols 1. Heart trouble- the first thing that we learn about Louise is her heart trouble this being both a physical and symbolic statement. The “heart disease” that Louise seems to have shows that she is unable to take any type of news without having an issue. …show more content…

The Open Window- This window represented the freedom in a new life and the fresh start that awaits her after hearing that her husband had died. She is able to experience through this window with a new sense of life the joy that takes place beyond it; it is a window into her future. Chopin is able to use this setting to set the scene for Louise feel for her freedom. 3. The Chair- The comfort of the chair allows Louise to relax her exhausted body into it giving her sense of relaxation. The chair itself symbolizes the rest form an oppressive life and expected freedom. B. Imagery 1. Patches of Blue sky- The sky she is able to see from her window as the light breaks through the clouds seems full of hope for her future. There were patches of blue sky showing here and there through the clouds that had met and piled one above the other in the west facing her window. (Chopin 476) 2. Birds-The viewing of the sparrows is a sign of freedom. She could see in the open square before her house the tops of trees that were all aquiver with the new spring life. The delicious breath of rain was in the air. The notes of a distant song which someone was singing reached her faintly, and countless sparrows were twittering in the eaves. (Chopin 476) C.

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