Expert: Josh Silverstein - 1/1/2005

Question
describe the theme of nothingness in fare well to arms.

Answer
Hello,

The Hemingway hero is a restless man, doesn't like the night, often will sleep through the day and stay awake during the night. The darkness of the night represents nothingness, the state in which things will be when one is dead, absolute oblivion. Darkness and sleep must be avoided, for in these states there is nothingness, "nada." Hemingway's discourse on "nada" is his way of exploring the darker side of his spiritual self.

Now try to apply some of the above ideas to Frederic Henry and Catherine Barkley in "A Farewell to Arms." How do Frederic and Catherine treat each other in the night? Do they make any references to darkness or the night? What are the symbols of nothingness in the  book?

You may also want to see the below link for more on the themes of "A Farewell to Arms." You should be able to find the "nada" in many of the themes:

http://pinkmonkey.com/booknotes/barrons/frwlarm07.asp


Sincerely,


Josh Silverstein
Webmaster
Timeless Hemingway
http://www.timelesshemingway.com
Speed Address: http://www.timeh.com