“Eveline,” “Roselily,” “Hills Like White Elephants,” and “The Enormous Radio” (see link below and attachment) seem to be in dialogue with each other in regards to certain themes about gender. The women in ALL of these pieces represent the breadth of complexities in regards to self-discovery and liberation (from social norms and/or relationships).

QUESTION

As a final project for our insane semester, you have a choice. Please choose either of the options below. If you want bonus credit, you can complete both:

1. “Eveline,” “Roselily,” “Hills Like White Elephants,” and “The Enormous Radio” (see link below and attachment) seem to be in dialogue with each other in regards to certain themes about gender. The women in ALL of these pieces represent the breadth of complexities in regards to self-discovery and liberation (from social norms and/or relationships). Explore, in 1000 words (or more), the shared connections of these stories. You must include a “Works Cited” page… but rely on your own knowledge.

2. Write your own short story in the vein of Hemingway’s “Hills Like White Elephants.” Your piece should be based on the following video instructions (posted for my Creative Writing students): https://vimeo.com/413181609

I’m here.

Brian

https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/1929/244bb2ad98beb001151c2d4344209dcf7749.pdf?_ga=2.85497370.2091616443.1590430311-48661707.1590430311

244bb2ad98beb001151c2d4344209dcf7749.pdf

Course Link/Course Content/Final Project

ANSWER

Exploring Gender Themes in “Eveline,” “Roselily,” “Hills Like White Elephants,” and “The Enormous Radio”

Introduction

This essay examines the shared connections and themes related to gender in the short stories “Eveline,” “Roselily,” “Hills Like White Elephants,” and “The Enormous Radio.” These narratives, written by different authors but published around the same period, offer unique perspectives on the complexities of self-discovery and liberation among women. By analyzing the portrayal of women in these stories, we can gain insights into the challenges they face in breaking free from societal norms and oppressive relationships.

Section 1: Shared Themes in Gender Representation

Self-Discovery and Autonomy

In all four stories, the female protagonists are on a journey of self-discovery and yearn for autonomy. “Eveline” depicts a young woman torn between her duty to family and her desire for freedom. In “Roselily,” the protagonist wrestles with societal expectations and her longing for independence. “Hills Like White Elephants” explores a couple’s strained relationship and the woman’s internal struggle to assert her desires. “The Enormous Radio” portrays Irene’s quest for personal identity and freedom from the confines of her marriage.

Gender Roles and Societal Expectations

The stories delve into the expectations and limitations imposed on women by society. “Eveline” reflects the pressure on women to prioritize their familial obligations over personal fulfillment. “Roselily” explores the conflict between tradition and individuality, as the protagonist questions societal norms surrounding marriage and religion. “Hills Like White Elephants” delves into the power dynamics between a man and a woman, highlighting the influence of societal expectations on their relationship. “The Enormous Radio” critiques the facade of a perfect suburban marriage and exposes the constraints placed on women within domestic settings.

Liberation and Consequences

The characters’ pursuit of liberation from oppressive circumstances comes with its own set of consequences. In “Eveline,” Eveline’s decision to stay reflects the fear of the unknown and the potential repercussions of defying societal norms. In “Roselily,” the protagonist’s escape from a stifling marriage is tinged with uncertainty and the possibility of alienation. “Hills Like White Elephants” presents the dilemma of a woman contemplating an abortion, which represents her desire for freedom but also the potential strain it may put on her relationship. “The Enormous Radio” explores the consequences of Irene’s pursuit of self-discovery, as she becomes disillusioned with the illusion of happiness.

Section 2: Creative Writing – Short Story in the Vein of “Hills Like White Elephants”

“Whispers Under the Willow Tree”

The story revolves around a couple, Jane and Michael, who find themselves at a crossroads in their relationship. They sit at a small cafe near a tranquil willow tree, engaging in a tense conversation filled with unspoken desires and unresolved conflicts. As they navigate their emotions, the theme of choice and its implications emerges.

Jane, feeling trapped in the relationship, yearns for independence and personal growth. She questions the sacrifices she has made and wonders if there is more to life than the prescribed path she has followed. Michael, on the other hand, struggles with his own insecurities and fear of change.

Through subtle dialogue and subtext, the story explores the complexities of communication, power dynamics, and the societal expectations placed on relationships. It touches upon themes of identity, personal agency, and the challenges of seeking liberation within the confines of a relationship.

Section 3: Personal Reflections

The shared connections among these stories shed light on the multifaceted nature of women’s experiences and the constraints imposed on them by societal norms. The struggles depicted in “Eveline,” “Roselily,” “Hills Like White Elephants,” and “The Enormous Radio” resonate with the ongoing battle for gender equality and individual autonomy.

These stories highlight the importance of acknowledging and challenging societal expectations placed on women. They encourage us to examine the complexities of relationships, power dynamics, and the pursuit of personal freedom. By understanding and empathizing with these shared experiences, we can contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

In conclusion, the stories “Eveline,” “Roselily,” “Hills Like White Elephants,” and “The Enormous Radio” offer a thought-provoking exploration of gender themes. They invite readers to reflect on the challenges faced by women in their quest for self-discovery and liberation. By analyzing these narratives, we gain insights into the nuances of gender representation and the impact of societal norms on individual agency and relationships.