Structure
The short story “The End of Something” by Ernest Hemingway begins with a description of Hortons Bay, a former lumber town. This is also the moment when the main characters, Nick and Marjorie, are introduced (ll. 20-22). The description of the ruin of the mill foreshadows the end of Nick and Marjorie’s relationship: “ ‘There's our old ruin, Nick,’ Marjorie said” (l. 26). This offers the readers the first hint that Nick and Marjorie are no longer happy in their relationship, which makes them expect the breakup at the end.
Another foreshadowing element suggests that Nick is experiencing an inner conflict: “ ‘What's the matter, Nick?’ Marjorie asked. ‘I don't know,’ Nick said, getting wood for a fire” (ll. 97-99). The meaning of his behavior is ...