Hills Like White Elephants

Hills Like White Elephants: Short story by Ernest HemingwayThis story by Ernest Hemingway is aptly set at a railway junction. A couple waiting for a train have an important decision to make that will determine the direction of their lives. Unfortunately, they have reached a point in their relationship where they find it hard to open up and talk about their feelings. Although the man says he will leave it up to the woman, he puts subtle pressure on her to choose his way. Themes: perspective (male vs. female views on pregnancy and abortion), choices and consequences (freedom vs. family), language and communication (disconnection), dependence and control. More…

An Hour with Abuelo

An Hour with Abuelo: Short story by Judith Ortiz CoferWhen the young protagonist in this Judith Ortiz Cofer story reluctantly visits a nursing home to spend an hour with his abuelo (grandfather), he admits to knowing very little about the old man’s background. The abuelo has written a short biography. He seems quite proud of what he has achieved in life given the challenges that came his way. However, the naïve boy is left wondering why the old man didn’t fight harder to realize his childhood dreams. Themes: aging, memories, language (words), ambition, acceptance (Asi es la vida = Such is life!), regret, sacrifice, family responsibility. More…