Minimalism is a style of writing in which the author presents a concise plot with few details and allows the reader to draw conclusions. Few notable features of minimalist fiction include use of simple language, short and simple sentences, symbolism, objective point of view, omission of character description, and unresolved main conflict. Well-known American writer Ernest Hemingway, in his short story "Cat in the Rain", effectively uses this minimalist aesthetic to address the theme of loneliness as well as notions such as nihilism and lack of resolution. The use of short, simple sentences, mostly without descriptive language, is a distinctive element of minimalism that helps emphasize the theme of loneliness in the story. The core qualities of minimalism, such as not using adjectives or adverbs to color the noun and verb, transcend a feeling of loneliness. “She continued to climb the stairs. She opened the bedroom door. George was on the bed, reading” (Hemingway 534). This excerpt shows the brevity of Hemingway's writing and the lack of detailed description. Similar to the bare phrases and dark language, the protagonist also lacks happiness and joy in her life, which adds to the theme of loneliness. Additionally, it should be noted that by using simple sentences, Hemingway seems to have the most impact. Throughout the story, Hemingway constantly reminds us that “the American wife looked out the window” (Hemingway 535). The constant repetition of this simple phrase has a poignant effect. In contrast to the hectic routine of the square, this sentence creates an image that the protagonist is confined. Even though she is not physically forced to go out, it highlights the idea that she feels alone ... middle of paper ... figurative language combined with the use of symbolism cleverly conveys the theme of loneliness. The cat not only symbolizes the protagonist's domestic desires due to her lonely life, but also channels the protagonist's emotional turmoil as she feels unloved and unsatisfied in her marriage. The cat is meant to fill the void of the American wife, which accentuates the lonely mood. On the other hand, the objective third-person narrator and lack of character information creates a nihilistic perspective. Even though he is unable to resolve deep conflicts, Hemingway does not really have a solution. Overall, these minimalist techniques are very effective and make the short story more intriguing. Works Cited Hemingway, Ernest. “Cat in the rain.” Bedford's Introduction to Literature. Michael Meyer. 9th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins, 2008. 533-35. Print.