Based on the excerpt from Ernest Hemingway's "In Another Country," the contextual meaning of the word "resign" in the passage is to accept or come to terms with something difficult or challenging. In this context, the character is expressing his struggle to accept and cope with a heartbreaking situation. He mentions that he "cannot resign" himself, indicating his difficulty in facing or dealing with the circumstances he is in.
1. The character's statement "It is very difficult," reflects the emotional weight of the situation he is experiencing.
2. When he says, "I am utterly unable to resign," it shows his inner turmoil and resistance to accepting or dealing with the reality of the situation.
3. The character's emotional breakdown, as seen through his tears and soldierly demeanor, highlights his internal conflict and the struggle to come to terms with his circumstances.
In this context, the word "resign" aligns more closely with the meaning of accepting or facing a challenging situation rather than defending, assuming, or explaining it.