Spring in Paris & John Dos Passos

In the chapter that was assigned and the reading that was provided I learned that both writers are actually quite similar. Their technique and goal seem to be quite comparable, from my point of view. The one thing that might separate or distinguish them is what they tend to include or incorporate into there storytelling. 

Hemingway has a more personal point of view in his writing, almost as if it’s conversational. He incorporates his daily life, activities, ideas, feelings, and thoughts in his chapters.

In “A Moveable Feast” it basically depicts his time and encounters in Paris, while Passos provides a more distinct interpretation of his current environment. His concerns lie more on an overall bases of his surroundings.

In Hemingway’s “People of the Seine” chapter he begins with a discussion regarding locations and addresses in Paris. He mentions rue Cardinal Lemoine and then goes on to Boulevard Saint-Germaine.

He remarks, “this was not like any other Paris market but was a sort of bonded warehouse where wine was stored against the payment of taxes and was as cheerless from the outside as a military depot or a prison.” The whole start of the chapter almost reminds me of a simple conversation regarding location. This is why, personally, I find his reading to be easier.

From then on he lets his mind lead him and transition from a discussion regarding fishing and his fascination and reasons on why he does not participate but still follows it to the sad beginning and end of seasons in Paris.

“This was the only truly sad time in Paris because it was unnatural. You expected to be sad in the fall. Part of you died each year when the leaves fell from the trees and their branches were bare against the wind and the cold, wintry light.

But you knew there was always spring, as you knew the river would flow again after it was frozen. When the cold rains kept on and killed the spring, it was as though a young person had died for no reason. “

This passage in the chapter shows his dedication and love for Paris. He speaks about how although one chapter of Paris may be closing and he is about to endure a part he may not be so fond of, he is still going to remain and look forward to when “his” Paris will resume and return. Because Hemingway does seem to speak with his mind, his ideals will often be projected.

So Paris is often romanticized, even if moments seem to be criticized he seems to find a way return the short moment of truth into just a beautiful reality.

When Passos begins his writing, he includes all details regarding his current writing subject. Although, it is quite close to Hemingway’s style, it is not as romanticized it seems to find itself to be more informative. 

For example, in segments in his writing he decides to not only include descriptions but their history.

Passos biased view is more palpable, he sticks to very dark or cynical terms. I recall he uses the term “gloomy” and “grey.” He doesn’t idealize or even idolize Paris as much as his former colleague did. He even states, “think of them guys in Paris, havin’ a hell of a time with wine an’ women, an’ we stay out her an’ clean our guns an’ drill.”

Although, both seem to follow a parallel documentation about their travels or time in Paris. Passos and Hemingway do have tiny features that distinct and separate them from each other. Hemingway is more loving and thought incorporated with his writing. He lets his mind take charge, while Passos has a more informative and cynical point of view with his writing.