Review of 'The Sun Also Rises'
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemmingway
Hemmingway's first novel, “The Sun Also Rises” follows the story of journalist Jake Barnes living in Paris, and his relationship promiscuous divorcée Lady Brett Ashley. Also featuring is Jake's Princeton friend Robert Cohn, American Bill Gorton, and Brett's fiancé Mike Campbell. Jake and Bill travel to Pamplona (Spain) for a fishing trip to nearby Burguete, hoping to be joined by Mike and Brett but this never happens. They eventually all meet up in Pamplona for it's fiesta which is held over seven days that features a lot of drinking and bull fighting (mostly drinking).
First, let me say that this book is very easy to read. Hemmingway is brilliant and conveying character, scene and dialogue. He is able to paint vivid pictures in your mind with only a few well-chosen words. Having said all that, I did not like any of the characters at all: Self-obsessed, spoiled, alcoholic ex-pats lacking any morals whatsoever (I will not mention the racism here which, sadly, was common of the era). Most of the book is spent describing their seeking out the next drink, travelling from bar to bar, restaurant to restaurant. Despite this, I still read on to see how it all turns out, even fascinated by the train wreck as it unfolds and amazed at how vividly the story unfolds in my mind. The plot is pretty much non-existent as it simply tells of the various travels of these would-be friends through Europe and you might be disappointed if you expect some sort of conclusion by the end.
Great writing, shame about the characters.
Rating: “Really good but I have some issues”
Review Date: 2025-01-26
Genre: General Fiction
Publisher: Charles Scribner
Publication Date: 1926