Concept of Existentialism & The Search for Meaning by Ernest Hemingway

Existentialism is a philosophy that emphasizes the individual's freedom and choice in determining their own meaning and purpose in life. It is a way of thinking that emphasizes the importance of personal experience, rather than relying on external factors like religion or society to determine one's purpose. It emphasizes that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning in life, and that the world is inherently meaningless.

Ernest Hemingway's short story, "A Clean, Well-Lighted Place," explores the concept of existentialism and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Through the characters and setting of the story, Hemingway portray the idea of existentialism and the search for meaning in a world that seems empty and meaningless.

The story centers around three characters: an old man who is a regular customer at the café, the younger waiter who is eager to close the café and go home, and the older waiter who empathizes with the old man and wants to keep the café open for him. The old man is a symbol of the existential search for meaning, as he spends his nights alone in the café, trying to find solace in the light and the cleanliness of the place. He is a symbol of the human condition, as he is searching for something that will make him feel alive and connected to the world.

The younger waiter represents the opposite of the old man, as he is eager to close the café and go home. He is impatient and dismissive of the old man, and he doesn't understand why the older waiter wants to keep the café open for him. He represents the idea of conformity, as he is content to follow the rules and expectations of society without questioning the meaning of his actions.

The older waiter is the character who most embodies the concept of existentialism in the story. He empathizes with the old man and understands his need for a clean, well-lighted place. He also understands the importance of individual freedom and choice, as he wants to keep the café open for the old man, even though it means staying longer at work. He represents the idea of authenticity, as he is true to himself and his values, even if it goes against the expectations of society.

The setting of the café also plays a significant role in the story, as it represents a place of refuge and solace for the old man. It is a place where he can escape the loneliness and isolation of his life, and find a sense of connection and meaning. The cleanliness and light of the café serve as symbols of the old man's search for meaning and purpose in his life. The café is a place where he can find a sense of belonging and purpose, even if it is only temporary.

The older waiter's empathy and understanding towards the old man represents the idea of authenticity and the rejection of societal expectations. He chooses to stay longer at work to keep the café open for the old man, even though it goes against the expectations of society. This act of empathy and understanding towards the old man's search for meaning in his life, illustrates the importance of being true to oneself, and the rejection of societal conformity.

The younger waiter, on the other hand, represents the opposite of the older waiter, as he is eager to close the café and go home. He is impatient and dismissive of the old man's need for a clean, well-lighted place, and he represents the idea of conformity, as he is content to follow the rules and expectations of society without questioning the meaning of his actions. The contrast between the older and younger waiter illustrates the importance of authenticity and the rejection of societal conformity, in the search for meaning in life.

The idea of existentialism in the story is further emphasized through the use of symbolism and imagery. The light in the café represents the hope and possibility of finding meaning in life, while the darkness outside represents the loneliness and emptiness of the world. The cleanliness of the café represents the idea of order and structure, which is important for the old man in finding meaning in his life. The repetition of the phrase "a clean, well-lighted place" serves to emphasize the importance of this concept in the story.

In conclusion, "A Clean, Well-Lighted Place" by Ernest Hemingway explores the concept of existentialism and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Through the characters of the old man, the younger waiter, and the older waiter, Hemingway portray the idea of individual freedom and choice, and the importance of authenticity and empathy in the search for meaning. The setting of the café serves as a symbol of the old man's search for refuge and solace, and the use of symbolism and imagery further emphasizes the theme of existentialism in the story. The old man's search for a clean, well-lighted place serves as a metaphor for the human desire to find meaning and purpose in life, and the café represents a temporary refuge from the emptiness and loneliness of the world.