Parallels?

One of the things that struck me while reading "A Farewell to Arms" are the correlations between the main character, Lt. Henry, and Ernest Hemingway (pictured, to the right). Both were wounded in a similar way, both recieved the Silver Medal for Bravery, both had a relationship with a nurse in a Milan Hospital, both were involved with ambulances -- and all while they were stationed along the same [Isonzo River] front. Does this mean that we can accept Henry's thoughts and feelings are being similar to Hemingway's? We will never know the answer for certain, but I think we can. Initially, Henry is pro-war and is looking for adventure. This is likely how Hemingway felt, as he volunteered to go and serve. As the novel draws on, Henry grows weary of the war and in the end is fully opposed to it. Again, Hemingway, likely felt the same way; if he did not, then why would he author an anti-war book.

This novel makes an interesting study: not only is the plot line one of the classics of literature, but it also is strongly inspired by the exploits of the author, almost in an autobiographical fashion.