Negative Reviews

Negative reviews are symbolic of Martha’s struggle to find her voice as a woman living in Ernest Hemingway’s shadow. The harsh reviews remind Martha that she is not standing on her own. Instead she must learn to break free of Ernest in order to thrive as a writer.

Ernest’s Letter

Ernest’s Letter is symbolic of why Ernest and Martha will never be able to succeed as a couple. The letter is designed to manipulate Martha and make her feel bad about making herself a priority instead of being dedicated to serving Ernest’s needed.

War

War is symbolic of Martha and Ernest’s relationship. The two are drawn together, as if being drawn into battle. The longer they are together, the more they realize that they cannot sustain the battle to try and feed the fire between them. Their marriage, like...