What symbolism is present in “The End of Something”?
The most prevalent symbol in “The End of Something” is the destroyed lumber mill, which represents Nick and Marjorie’s soon-to-be destroyed relationship. As they row past the mill, Marjorie remarks that it reminds her of a castle. Nick says nothing to this. Hemingway feels it unnecessary to explain Marjorie’s allusion to the castle, that this is most likely the way she views her relationship with Nick, as a well defended fortress incapable of destruction. He is also not tempted to analyze why Nick doesn’t respond. He simply uses Marjorie’s allusion and Nick’s lack of response to connect the future fate of their relationship with the past fate of the mill, one of ultimate ruin. This is Hemingway’s “theory of omission” in practice.
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- What symbolism is present in "The End of Something"?
