Ernest Hemingway Soldier's Home Essay

Ernest Hemingway’s ambiguous “Soldier’s Home” stirs not only the emotions of the readers, but also Hemingway himself. While reading his work, one cannot ignore the substantial amount of historical references that Hemingway was subject to while he served in the war. The setting of “Soldier’s Home” is an important distinction. Taking place in the early 1900’s, the short story revolves around Krebs: a young soldier who has returned to his hometown after fighting in WWI, just as the author did in 1918. As it did for many other soldiers at the time, the war changed Krebs. The once lively and curious boy turned into a solemn man, lacking the ambition he once had. His hometown remained unchanged except for the young girls, who matured into young women.

He points out the women’s unchanged bobbed hairstyle and refers to the style of their sweaters and Dutch-collared shirts as sort of a pattern. Though it is a reoccurring focus in the character’s mind, the author also makes a point to include how even though he admired these women, he was not willing to put forth the effort of beginning a new relationship, much to his mother’s dismay. Before the war, he followed the path of a boy from his home by pursuing girls his age, living through his faith in God, and planning to get a job and settling down. After the war, however, Krebs returned a soulless man with no plans for his future. His desire to have a relationship with anyone was shattered as a result of this significant change. While this is true, it is clear that he still values his sisters and mother. The dialogue between Krebs (Harold) and his sister, Helen does suggest a close relationship. It is unclear what type of relationship but there is room to suggest something other than a simple bond between siblings. His closeness with his sister may be due to the fact that he was close to her age when he left for war and he mentally, still feels like he is still a young