JOURNAL ARTICLE

Enduring the Void: Hemingway’s Characters and the Struggle Against Isolation.

  • Published In: Pennsylvania Literary Journal (2151-3066), 2025, v. 17, n. 3. P. 73 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Kilpatrick, Stephanie 3 of 3

Abstract

Abstract: This paper explores how Ernest Hemingway portrays isolation as a universal human experience and argues that his writing suggests the only way to overcome it is through finding personal purpose and meaningful connection. Focusing on Jake Barnes in The Sun Also Rises and Santiago in The Old Man and the Sea, the essay compares two contrasting responses to isolation. While Jake dysfunctionally avoids feelings of loneliness through alcohol or fantasy, Santiago embraces solitude as a space for reflection, drawing strength from connection and purpose. Ultimately, Hemingway distinguishes between stoic endurance and psychological survival, implying that connection and purpose—not mere resilience—are the true keys to withstanding life’s isolating forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Pennsylvania Literary Journal (2151-3066). 2025/09, Vol. 17, Issue 3, p73
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:2151-3066
  • Accession Number:190457529
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Pennsylvania Literary Journal (2151-3066) is the property of Pennsylvania Literary Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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