"The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber" is a fabulous short story written by Ernest
Hemingway which was published in 1936. The story is a tale that introduces a new technique
and style that Hemingway was not accustom to writing. Author Philip Young remarks that the
piece, "presents certain difficulties, ..., because of new approaches the author takes to his
material and his protagonist" (Young 41). In this story a reader can recognize two different
themes. The first would be over coming fears, whether it be staring into the face of danger or
plainly standing up for yourself. The second is to learn the code of big game hunting, which is
supported by Philip Young saying that, " 'The Short Happy Life' is, among other things a
detailed description of the process of learning the code, and its value" (Young 42). The reader
can also see some comparison between the events of the story itself and the events of
Hemingway's life, though it is not meant to be taken literal but merely suggesting the author is
writing about a topic that is familiar to him.
Hemingway begins the story as portraying his main character, Francis Macomber, as "a
coward who becomes a brave man" (Voss 225). Macomber, a wealthy man who has been raised
with a silver spoon is forced to face his fear of dying and being alone. The mere thought of a
lion ripping him to pieces has sent him running for the hills twice during his escapade in Africa.
The character even "speaks of having 'bolted like a rabbit,' and he is very ashamed and
apologetic" (Voss 236). Here the Macomber speaks out against himself to admit to his shameful
behavior. During the hunt for the second lion Macomber questions the hunter, Wilson, as to why
he can not shoot the lion from his position in the car. Even Hemingway states "For a man to
shoot at a lion from the protect...