“Hemingway takes a small ordinary detail in a situation through the art of story telling transforms it into a powerful story about the tragedy of war.”Views on this statement.
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Hemingway showcases his storytelling talent in the short story 'The Old Man at the Bridge'. The story is set in the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War. So many stories and poems have been written about war that the settings have become quite common. Despite the familiar events of heavy 'artillery', civilians fleeing their homes and the feeling of hopelessness, Hemingway's story stands out.
Hemingway's treatment of the seemingly common character of an old man and his situation adds even more depth to the war story. The old man in his dusty clothes symbolises the hopelessness of humanity that has lost its sheen. Man is not kind to his fellow beings, which causes tremendous destruction during war. In the midst of such chaos, the old man sits on the bridge and thinks only of the animals he had to leave behind. His thinking, full of selflessness and kindness, is in sharp contrast with the hatred of war.
The old man’s situation makes it a story of love and despair. The theme of separation is also evident from his love for his native town and his preoccupation with the animals. The mention of San Carlos gives him tremendous joy and the thought of the animals makes him anxious. Surprisingly, the things that make him emotional, are not prized personal belongings. While the war is about occupying territory, the old man is least concerned about any material possessions.
Furthermore, the narrator's conversation with the old man at a time when they can come face to face with the enemy any second, shows humanity even during extremely difficult times. On one side an army is tearing down everything through heavy artillery, while on the other hand the narrator takes the time to talk to an old man he does not even know.
Earnest Hemingway uses a simple situation to bring out the complexity of human existence, through many contrasting ideas. His storytelling, based on a simple situation, is extremely thought-provoking.