Ernest Hemingway’s Green Hills of Africa is a lyrical and introspective account of the famed author’s safari travels in East Africa. In this book, Hemingway divulges his remarkable and intense relationship with the land and its natives, whilst reflecting upon his life, his legacy, and the price of glory. Written as a semi-autobiographical narrative, Green Hills of Africa conveys the thrill and excitement of the hunt, as well as the realism of the harsh African environment.
The book begins with a vivid recollection of the green hills of Africa, seen “like mountains of the moon,” and it is clear from the outset that Hemingway is creating a sense of nostalgia for a dream that is no longer attainable. His main character, Robert Reinder, is a hunter, who feels a strong desire to explore these hills in search of a trophy that will remind him of when his life was different. It is at this point in the book, where we get an insight into Hemingway’s longing for a time that he could never have back: perfection.
Through the vivid descriptions of nature, his characters, and his memories of the past, Hemingway conveys his own emotional journey as he discovers the harsh truths of African life. As the story progresses, it is apparent that Hemingway is trying to reconcile his own glorified image of Africa, with the often harsh realities at work. He discovers that glory, while often sought, brings financial hardship and physical exhaustion in equal measure.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Green Hills of Africa is how Hemingway manages to capture the beauty of the landscape. From the rolling hills and wildlife to the late evening sunsets, he is able to convey the passion and wonder of Africa in vivid detail. He describes the harmony between people and nature, showing the beauty that can be found in the often inhospitable environment.
Throughout the book, Hemingway’s characters: Reinder, Hardy, and Robert, each carry their own significance as reflections of Hemingway’s life and legacy. The characters' reactions to the difficulties of hunting, their taste for adventure and the African environment, mirror the writer's own thoughts and feelings.
As the story progresses, it is clear that Hemingway wants to make sure that the reader understands the cost of glory. After the initial elation of a successful hunt, Reinder looks back with a sort of regret and exhaustion, staring into the horizon, with hardly the energy to pack up his things and return home.
Finally, by the end of the book, Hemingway captures the spirit of his journey, as the dangers and hardships he had come to accept, toil away beneath a slowly setting sun. Imbued with a newfound respect for the land and its inhabitants, he puts all his energy into capturing, what he believes, is the very essence of Africa.
Green Hills Of Africa, is a masterful and introspective look at Hemingway’s relationship with the African landscape, his experiences and the people he encountered. Challenging, thought-provoking and profoundly moving, this book is essential reading for anyone eager for an exceptional literary experience.
