Gentlemen Prefer Blondes · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Gentlemen Prefer Blondes by Anita Loos.
Chapter 1
Dedication
The book is dedicated to John Emerson.
Chapter 2
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes: The Illuminating Diary of a Professional Lady
The opening of the diary introduces Lorelei, a young woman who begins recording her life and adventures. She reflects on her relationships, her pursuit of material wealth, and her navigation of social circles, setting the stage for her journey to Europe and her encounters with various men and societal expectations.
Chapter 3
I: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Lorelei begins her diary on March 16th, encouraged by a senator friend. She reflects on her relationship with Mr. Eisman, who educates her, and her desire to improve her mind. She recounts a quarrel with Dorothy over calling Mr. Eisman by his first name, a failed luncheon plan with Coocoo, and a literary evening at her apartment. On her birthday, Mr. Eisman initially gives a small diamond but later presents a beautiful bracelet. She also mentions meeting English novelist Mr. Gerald Lamson, who takes an interest in her writing.
Chapter 4
II: Fate Keeps on Happening
Lorelei and Dorothy sail to Europe on the Majestic. Lorelei is upset by the sight of a gentleman from her past, eventually revealed to be District Attorney Bartlett, who prosecuted her for shooting Mr. Jennings in Arkansas. She confides in Major Falcon, who is secretly investigating Bartlett's mission for the U.S. government.
Chapter 5
III: London Is Really Nothing
Lorelei and Dorothy arrive in London and find it less impressive than New York. Lorelei tries to educate Sir Francis Beekman (Piggie) in American ways by tricking him into thinking he sent her orchids. She also meets Fanny Ward, goes shopping in the children's department, and attends tea at Lady Shelton's. Meanwhile, she worries about affording a diamond tiara and cables Mr. Eisman for money.
Chapter 6
IV: Paris Is Devine
Lorelei and Dorothy explore Paris with a French viscount, visit the Eiffel Tower, tea at the Madrid, and Montmartre, but Lorelei finds French gentlemen less rewarding than American ones. She devises a scheme with Dorothy to buy an imitation diamond tiara to deceive Lady Francis Beekman and help Louie and Robber, while planning to use the tiara to encourage shopping sprees. They attend the Folies Bergère, and Lorelei reflects on the hospitality of French people.
Chapter 7
V: The Central of Europe
Lorelei and Dorothy travel on the Oriental Express through Central Europe, where they encounter the famous Henry Spoffard. Lorelei attempts to impress him by presenting herself as an old-fashioned, moral girl, while worrying about Dorothy's unrefined behavior. They stop in Munich to view art, but find the city's culture and smells overwhelming.
Chapter 8
Brains Are Really Everything
Lorelei schemes to become a movie star by financing a film about Dolly Madison, but panics when Dorothy sabotages her engagement to Henry by exaggerating her past. She rushes to catch Henry at the train station, smooths things over, and they become engaged. The chapter ends with Lorelei planning a debut party, managing her new family, and deciding to end her diary to focus on her scenarios and bringing happiness to others.