A Farewell to Arms · Chapter
Chapter XXXV explained
Frederic Henry spends time with Count Greffi, a 94-year-old former diplomat, playing billiards and drinking champagne at the hotel in Stresa.
What happens
Frederic Henry spends time with Count Greffi, a 94-year-old former diplomat, playing billiards and drinking champagne at the hotel in Stresa. They discuss war, religion, love, and wisdom. Later, Frederic goes fishing with the barman and returns to Catherine. In the evening, he plays billiards again with Count Greffi, who reflects on aging and life.
Themes in this chapter
Religion and Faith
Frederic and Count Greffi discuss religious belief, with Frederic saying his faith comes 'at night' and the Count lamenting his lack of devotion.
War and Disillusionment
Count Greffi calls the war 'stupid' and Frederic avoids talking about it, reflecting disillusionment.
Love and Loss
Frederic's deep love for Catherine is evident; he feels faint with loving her and is reluctant to leave her.
Characters to notice
- Frederic Henry
Narrator and protagonist; spends time with Count Greffi and Catherine in Stresa.
- Catherine Barkley
Frederic's lover; stays at the hotel and rests while Frederic socializes.
- Count Greffi
A 94-year-old former diplomat; plays billiards and drinks champagne with Frederic, discussing life and war.
- Helen Ferguson
Catherine's friend; Catherine visits her at a little hotel along the lake.
Key passages
“I think it is stupid.”
Count Greffi says the war is foolish.
Reflects the theme of war and disillusionment.
“My own comes only at night.”
Frederic says his religious feeling only appears at night.
Highlights the theme of religion and faith.
“I felt faint with loving her so much.”
Frederic feels overwhelmed by his love for Catherine.
Emphasizes the theme of love and loss.