Depiction Of The Theme Of Death And Its Literary Analysis In The Snows Of Kilimanjaro
Analysis of the Snows of Kilimanjaro
Hemingway’s short story, The Snows of Kilimanjaro is a poignant and solemn tale that explores the themes of regret and death. Harry, the main character, is infected after he travels to Africa. His health then declines. The man begins to think back on his life and reflect on his past choices. Hemingway appears to use death in his piece. He uses it to represent how it can increase our aspirations to greatness. This theme is portrayed by Hemingway through many symbolic references to the death of “buzzards,” and “vultures.” His message is further illustrated through the setting, which plays a significant part in the story. Hemingway’s portrayal of marital conflict seems like Harry’s frustration with his life. Hemingway’s The Snows of Kilimanjaro uses death to highlight the shortness of life and the importance of achievement through clever symbolism and allegorical setting.
Hemingway uses death as a constant theme in his writings. Harry is first struck by vultures and other hyenas as they circle his camp. He also mentions that his truck was broken down and that the leopard carcass had frozen to the ground. Also, the deathly odor he is emitting. These symbols all refer to Harry’s writing career and life. His infection further reinforces the message of putrefaction. These symbols of waste are also used by Hemingway to emphasize the short life Harry assumed. Harry begins to feel death coming closer to him towards the end. This demonstrates the idea of death appearing like a shadow, waiting for its victim. Hemingway’s message can be illustrated again in the personification, which shows that death can strike at anytime, ending any life and ending all pursuits for greatness. This story demonstrates this point. Hemingway begins the story in an African camp. This is where the main character develops and acquires an infection. The author describes the location as “…a pleasant campsite under large trees against a hill, with great water and close by, an almost dry waterhole where sandgrouse flowed in mornings. (page 2). The location’s beautiful aesthetics were not enough to suggest that one will die soon if they live a luxurious, but wasted life. Harry dreams of being saved and flown to Mount Kilimanjaro. This is a reference to death, possibly suggesting that he will die soon. Harry’s fictional rescue, as well as his travel to the “houseof God,” symbolizes his departure from this life and into Heaven. Then he saw that he was heading to the “house of God.” (page 15).
Harry’s dissatisfaction about his life is evident in his arguments with his wife. He realizes that his life was a waste of time and is now venting his anger at Helen. CliffNotes points out that Harry drinks and insults Helen as they wait for a rescue flight from Nairobi. Harry looks back at his life and realizes he was wasting his talent. He also regrets his marriage to Helen. This story shows Harry’s discontent.
The Snows of Kilimanjaro, Ernest Hemingway’s story about death and writing, is his final tale. The man examines his many failures throughout the story. This reinforces the theme that regret is a part of life. We become more aware and conscious of our mortality when we acknowledge our potential. This deeply contemplative message is conveyed by Hemingway’s allegorical portrayal of death, such as the references to vultures or hyenas. Hemingway also uses the setting to portray Harry’s death. “Kilimanjaro,” literally means “house God”, and Hemingway depicts Harry’s annoyances and regrets in Hemingway’s portrayal. The Snows of Kilimanjaro by Ernest Hemingway, in its final form, serves as a reminder of how fleeting life can be and the importance of reaching one’s goals and dreams.
