Ernest Hemingway’s short story, A Farewell to Arms, examines the character change of its protagonist, Frederic Henry. Henry was a young American ambulance driver serving in the Italian army during the First World War. A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway entails Frederic Henry’s transition to stop supporting after it negatively impacted his physical and mental well-being. This transition is akin to my decision to stop taking life for granted and explore the world after losing two relatives in a short span. The transition period is vital as it has favorably changed one’s perception regarding life and death. In the transitional situation, Henry has to deal with the loss of a friend due to the war. I related to Henry’s misfortune which precipitated a change in war ideals and perspectives regarding life, as I have also lost two loved ones in a short period.
The death of a loved one directly impacts an individual’s mental state. This is emphasized by Frederic Henry’s change regarding the war and life perspectives. At first, Henry was less invested in how the war affected civilians’ lives. However, this changed after he killed a comrade as a result of an argument and deserted (Hemingway 100). My perspective has changed drastically after losing my grandfather and uncle, who were important figures in my life, and realizing that my aunt will soon depart as she is on hospice care with ALS-Lou Gehrig’s. I perceived that no moment should be taken for granted after losing two close relatives. This situation has forced me out of my comfort zone, traveling the states, meeting new people, and learning deeper about myself and my interests.
In conclusion, the novel highlights a war situation that impacts an individual’s life. Henry is introduced to the adverse effects of war previously unknown to him, culminating in the senseless killing of his comrade. Consequently, the situation forces Frederic Henry, the main protagonist, to establish a change in perspective and responsibility towards conflict. I equate this to losing two of my close relatives, a situation that has made me focus on the best moments in life.
Work Cited
Hemingway, Ernest. A Farewell to Arms. Paw Prints, 2008.