Evaluating Ernest Hemingways Influence: A Personal Perspective on Favorite Passages

Introduction: The unique storytelling prowess of Ernest Hemingway has captivated readers for decades. In this article, we will explore some personal favorite passages from his works, including his insightful writings about love, the profound influence of John Donne’s poetry, and his descriptive prowess in conveying natural beauty.

The Enigmatic John Donne

Though Hemingway is celebrated for his own literary contributions, one of my favorite passages, “When spring came even the false spring there were no problems except where to be happiest. The only thing that could spoil a day was people and if you could keep from making engagements each day had no limits. People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself.”, is not even written by him. Instead, it references a famous poem by John Donne: “For Whom the Bell Tolls.”

(Source: A Moveable Feast)

A Moveable Feast

In his memoir, A Moveable Feast, Hemingway delves into the complexities of love and relationships. A particular passage that resonates deeply, especially the quote “I wished I had died before I ever loved anyone but her,” stirs a profound emotional response each time I read it. It highlights the ephemeral nature of love and the irreplaceable quality of certain relationships. Hemingway’s ability to convey such rich emotional content with few words truly stands out.

The Uniqueness of Robert Jordan

Another favorite passage, this time from For Whom the Bell Tolls, captures the essence of Hemingway’s narrative style. When Robert Jordan is surprised by the arrival of a cavalryman near the partisans’ home base, Hemingway manages to intertwine multiple layers of tension and complexity. The passage is a masterclass in pacing and suspense, making it one of the highlights of the novel. ("For Whom the Bell Tolls will forever occupy a special place in my heart."

Natural Beauty in Hemingway's Writings

Hemingway's descriptions of the natural world, particularly during a visit to mountainous areas, are astoundingly vivid. In passages where his characters walk through the forests, one can almost feel the crunch of the leaves underfoot and the freshness of the mountain air. His approach to nature is a testament to his deep appreciation for the natural world, a testament that has inspired many readers, myself included. (Art – Spring Delight by Vladimir Kush)

The Barman's Unspoken Resilience

In "A Clean Well-Lighted Place," Hemingway crafts a powerful narrative through dialogue and action. The exchange between the barman and the patron, where the barman looks at him but does not answer, is a poignant moment. The passage reads: "The barman poured it for him. The barman looked at him but did not answer. It was too late at night for conversation." This moment is emblematic of the broader themes of loneliness and the solace found in the everyday.

Conclusion: Hemingway, American Literature, and Personal Preferences

While I am a great admirer of Ernest Hemingway, there is a cultural barrier that I find difficult to overcome when it comes to fully appreciating American literature. Despite this, there are many other American poets like Robert Frost, Emily Dickinson, and Edgar Allan Poe whose work resonates deeply with me. Authors like Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, and Charles Dickens are my preferred choices when it comes to literary classics, often stemming from a deep appreciation for the British literary heritage. However, this does not diminish my admiration and deep respect for the artistry and depth of Hemingway’s work. (A Clean Well-Lighted Place)