# XXXIX explained — A Farewell to Arms

> Chapter companion for A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway.

## What happens

In January, Frederic and Catherine enjoy a peaceful winter in the Swiss mountains, taking long walks, visiting an inn for glühwein, and observing wildlife. They discuss their future, the baby, and their isolation from others, expressing contentment in their secluded life.

## Themes in this chapter

### Escape and Retreat

Frederic and Catherine find solace in the isolated Swiss mountains, away from the war and society.

### Love and Loss

Their intimate conversations reveal deep affection and anxiety about the future, especially regarding the baby.

### Nature and the Cycle of Life

The winter landscape, foxes, and chamois hunters reflect the natural world and the ongoing cycle of life, including Catherine's pregnancy.

## Character check-ins

### Frederic Henry

Has grown a beard and enjoys winter walks with Catherine; discusses family and finances.

### Catherine Barkley

Pregnant, wears hobnailed boots and a cape; talks about cutting her hair after the baby is born.

## Key lines

> You have a splendid beard now. It looks just like the woodcutters’.

Catherine compliments Frederic on his beard, comparing it to that of the local woodcutters.

_Shows their integration into the rural Swiss setting and Catherine's playful admiration._

> She won’t come between us, will she? The little brat.

Catherine worries that the baby might disrupt their relationship.

_Reveals Catherine's anxiety about the future and her desire to maintain their closeness._

> Hell, I love you enough now. What do you want to do? Ruin me?

Frederic expresses that his love for Catherine is already complete, jokingly asking if she wants to overwhelm him.

_Highlights the depth of their bond and their playful, affectionate dynamic._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_farewell_to_arms_se/chapters/xxxix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_farewell_to_arms_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_farewell_to_arms_se/chapters