The Sun Also Rises
By: Ernest Hemingway
The Sun Also Rises begins with Jake Barnes narrating his life in Paris. Jake is a veteran of World War One, and a journalist who is acquainted with several other veterans and writers. Their lives consist of part time writing, and full time partying and drinking. Since they are all part of the Lost Generation their lives constantly feel empty and meaningless, hence the decadent lifestyle. During his service, Jake meets Brett Ashley, and the two fall in love. But since Jake's injury at war left him impotent, Brett cannot marry him because of her need for sex. The entire group considers sex and partying some of the only ways to become happy.
After deciding that their youthfulness is fading and they all require a trip to truly experience life, the group heads to Pamplona for the fiesta and the running of the bulls. While heading there, Jake and fellow friend Bill stop in Bayonne and fish for trout alone the Irati River. They really enjoy their time there but insist the party in Pamplona must be far greater and make them happier. After spending a week partying in Pamplona the, the group begins to split off in search of new pleasures. Soon, they all leave the place they considered their last chance at finding happiness. The Sun Also Rises serves to demonstrate that nothing can buy one's happiness, and a life of luxury never makes one satisfied in the end.
After deciding that their youthfulness is fading and they all require a trip to truly experience life, the group heads to Pamplona for the fiesta and the running of the bulls. While heading there, Jake and fellow friend Bill stop in Bayonne and fish for trout alone the Irati River. They really enjoy their time there but insist the party in Pamplona must be far greater and make them happier. After spending a week partying in Pamplona the, the group begins to split off in search of new pleasures. Soon, they all leave the place they considered their last chance at finding happiness. The Sun Also Rises serves to demonstrate that nothing can buy one's happiness, and a life of luxury never makes one satisfied in the end.