Hills Like White Elephants

by Ernest Hemingway

Hills Like White Elephants: Mood 1 key example

Definition of Mood

The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect of a piece of writing... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes... read full definition
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of “Hills Like White Elephants” is simultaneously frustrating and depressing. The entire story is centered on an argument between the man and the girl that goes in circles and has no clear resolution. Even before the topic of the girl’s potential abortion comes up, the couple is already bickering, leading to a frustrating mood from the very start of the story:

“Well, let’s try and have a fine time,” [said the man].

“All right. I was trying. I said the mountains looked like white elephants. Wasn’t that bright?”

“That was bright.”

“I wanted to try this new drink: That’s all we do, isn’t it—look at things and try new drinks?”

“I guess so.”