the snows of kilimanjaro summary

2025 Vertis

2 min read 11-11-2024

Introduction

The Snows of Kilimanjaro is a poignant short story written by Ernest Hemingway. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Kilimanjaro mountain in Tanzania, the narrative delves into themes of mortality, artistic failure, and the complexity of human relationships. This summary encapsulates the main ideas and reflections presented in the story.

Overview of the Plot

The story revolves around Harry, a writer who is suffering from an infected leg while on a safari trip with his wife, Helen. As Harry faces the prospect of death, he reflects on his life, his accomplishments, and the regrets that haunt him. His memories transport him between the present moment of his suffering and past experiences, revealing his inner turmoil and dissatisfaction with himself.

Key Characters

Harry: The protagonist, a writer grappling with his impending death and the choices he has made in life.
Helen: Harry's wife, who remains devoted and caring, despite Harry's bitterness and discontent.

Themes

Mortality and Regret

A central theme in The Snows of Kilimanjaro is the inevitability of death. Harry’s physical deterioration serves as a metaphor for his artistic and personal failures. He is tormented by his unfulfilled potential as a writer and the stories he never wrote.

The Search for Meaning

Throughout the story, Harry grapples with questions of meaning and purpose. As he nears the end, he contemplates his life choices, relationships, and the impact of his work. His reflections serve as a critique of living authentically versus succumbing to societal pressures.

Nature's Indifference

The majestic yet indifferent landscape of Kilimanjaro symbolizes both the beauty and the harshness of nature. While it serves as a breathtaking backdrop, it also emphasizes the fragility of human life in the face of nature's grandeur.

Symbolism

The Snow-Capped Kilimanjaro

The snow on Kilimanjaro represents the idealized life that Harry longs for but has not achieved. It contrasts with his current suffering and serves as a reminder of what could have been—a life full of purpose and creativity.

The Leopard

A dead leopard found near the mountain embodies Harry's sense of loss and his struggle against the inevitability of death. The leopard's beauty juxtaposes Harry’s decay, highlighting the tragic nature of existence.

Conclusion

The Snows of Kilimanjaro is a profound exploration of life's complexities, focusing on the intersections of art, mortality, and personal regret. Hemingway's poignant narrative compels readers to reflect on their own lives, urging them to confront their fears and aspirations. As Harry faces his end, readers are left to ponder the significance of living fully and authentically before it’s too late.

Final Thoughts

Hemingway's work remains timeless, as it speaks to universal human experiences. The story serves as a reminder to cherish our lives, embrace creativity, and acknowledge our own mortality, reinforcing the idea that life’s beauty is often intertwined with its fragility.