What makes Ernest Hemingway's short stories the best?

Hemingway's best short stories are great because of his masterful use of setting. Take 'Big Two - Hearted River' for instance. The description of the river and the surrounding wilderness not only sets the scene but also becomes a character in itself, representing both peace and the unknown. His stories are also known for their exploration of the human condition. In 'The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber', we see the insecurities and the struggle for self - worth within the characters. And his use of understatement is a key factor. In 'The Killers', the calm way the characters react to the threat of death adds to the overall sense of unease and mystery.

His 'Old Man at the Bridge' is a very good short story. It shows the simple yet powerful portrayal of an old man during the Spanish Civil War, his displacement and the sense of doom. 'Cat in the Rain' is also a fine work. It is a short but evocative story about a woman's desires and her sense of dissatisfaction. 'Fifty Grand' is a great short story as well, which is set in the boxing world and explores themes like pride, honor, and corruption.

Well, 'Big Two - Hearted River' is considered one of his best. It shows Hemingway's love for nature and his ability to describe the physical and mental state of the protagonist in a very detailed way. The story is about a man who goes fishing, but it's also about his attempt to find some peace and normalcy after experiencing the traumas of war. Also, 'The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber' is a great short story. It has themes of masculinity, fear, and courage, as well as complex relationships between the characters.

Another great one is 'Hills Like White Elephants'. It's a short yet deeply impactful story. The dialogue between the man and the woman is so subtly written that it reveals a great deal about their relationship and the unspoken decision they are facing. It shows Hemingway's skill in using minimalism to maximum effect.

The themes in his short stories are very relatable. In 'Hills Like White Elephants', the unspoken tension between the couple is something many can understand. His stories often deal with life, death, love, and disappointment in a very real and raw way. Also, his ability to create complex characters in a short space is remarkable. In 'The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber', the characters' personalities are fully developed in just a few pages.

Hemingway's influence on literature is another reason. Reading this collection gives you a chance to study his techniques up close. His use of dialogue, for example, is very effective in revealing character traits and moving the story forward. His unique style has inspired generations of writers, so by reading these short stories, you can also gain insights into the evolution of modern literature.

Hemingway's short stories are known for their sparse dialogue. However, the few words that are spoken carry a great deal of meaning. In 'Hills Like White Elephants', the dialogue between the man and the woman is minimal but reveals a complex relationship and the unspoken issue of abortion.

The best short stories of Ernest Hemingway typically have a strong sense of place. Whether it's the cafes in Paris or the fishing villages in Cuba, the settings are vividly described and play an important role in the story. Also, his stories often deal with themes of loss, whether it's the loss of love, youth, or purpose. His characters are often damaged in some way, and through their experiences, we see the harsher aspects of life.

Well, 'The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber' is among the best. It delves into themes like courage, masculinity, and the power dynamics in relationships. Then there's 'Big Two - Hearted River', which shows Hemingway's ability to describe nature in great detail and also tells a story of a man's return to normalcy after trauma. 'Cat in the Rain' is also a notable short story that gives insights into a woman's feelings and desires in a relationship.

One highlight could be the unique writing style. Hemingway's use of simple yet powerful language is striking. His stories often have a sense of authenticity. For example, in 'The Old Man and the Sea', which might be included, the vivid descriptions of the struggle between the old man and the marlin show his great ability to depict the essence of human perseverance.