Hills Like White Elephants Questions

Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.

  1. How would the story be impacted/changed if Jig wanted the abortion and the man wanted to get married and keep the baby?
  2. What is the narrative function of setting this story in Spain? How would the story be different if it took place in Mexico? Greece? China?
  3. Could the story be used to support a pro-life position? What about a pro-choice position?
  4. What does this story seem to say about the role of communication in relationships?
  5. Do you think the couple in "Hills Like White Elephants" have a future together? Can you see any conceivable situation in which their relationship works out?
  6. This is known as one of Hemingway's best stories. Why do you think this is? What's so great about it?
  7. "Hills Like White Elephants" is commonly taught in creative writing classes. Why? How can this story teach its readers to be better writers?