29 pages • 58 minutes read
Ernest HemingwayThe Killers
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1927A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Literary Devices
Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition is a literary device that involves the strategic placement of two elements (such as characters, phrases, or ideas) to highlight their contrasting qualities. In “The Killers,” Hemingway employs juxtaposition to convey the theme of Passivity Versus Activity: Nick’s proactive nature is contrasted with Ole Andreson’s passive disposition. Nick, deeply concerned about Ole’s safety, takes it upon himself to visit him and warn him of the impending danger. Ole, however, is reclining in bed “with all his clothes on” and “his head on two pillows” (50), an image that symbolizes his resigned acceptance of his fate. Nick persistently attempts to find a solution, showing his proactive nature, while Ole’s passivity becomes increasingly evident. This juxtaposition highlights the stark divergence between characters’ responses to adversity, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is a literary technique through which authors provide hints or warnings about future events within a narrative. This device allows writers to create anticipation, build tension, and enhance the overall reading experience. In “The Killers,” Hemingway uses foreshadowing to create a tense narrative atmosphere. The story begins as darkness descends: Hemingway writes that “outside it was getting dark. The street-lights came on outside the window” (43). By portraying the onset of darkness, Hemingway hints at the ominous events that are about to unfold and disrupt the lives of the characters. This foreshadowing casts a gloomy and foreboding aura over the narrative. Darkness is generally associated with negative elements, so this masterfully builds tension, drawing the audience into the narrative and intensifying their anticipation.
Archetype
An archetype in literature is a recurring character, symbol, situation, or theme that is found in a wide range of stories from different cultures and time periods. Archetypes are universal symbols that evoke deep and often unconscious responses in readers. In “The Killers,” Max and Al are portrayed as archetypical gangsters. This is evident in their attire, characterized by “tight overcoats and derby hats” (49), silk mufflers, and gloves, as well as in their speech and actions. The two taunt George and Nick, calling them “bright boys” (45), and use coarse language such as “none of your damned business” (45). By employing such a recognizable and universally understood archetype, Hemingway efficiently conveys the essence of these characters to the reader, making it easier to comprehend their roles and motivations within the story. Max and Al’s embodiment of the gangster archetype therefore enables readers to engage more readily with the narrative and its themes.
Colloquialism
Colloquialism is the literary technique of employing informal, everyday language in writing. Colloquial language can include slang, regional dialects, and vernacular speech patterns. Authors utilize colloquialisms to infuse their characters with personality and authenticity. In “The Killers,” as in much of his work, Hemingway’s prose relies heavily on dialogue, which is characterized by its simplicity and naturalness, featuring everyday language, slang, and a deliberate avoidance of complex expressions. This approach yields writing that feels direct, clear, and fresh. For instance, the two killers casually inquire of George, “what the hell do you put it on the card for?” (43) and remark, “everything we want’s the dinner, eh?” (44). This skillful use of colloquial language renders the dialogues believable and easily comprehensible for readers.
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By Ernest Hemingway
