Gentlemen Prefer Blondes · Chapter
I: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes explained
Lorelei begins her diary on March 16th, encouraged by a senator friend.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Materialism and Transactional Relationships
Lorelei's relationship with Mr. Eisman is based on financial support for her education in exchange for companionship; she measures his affection by the size of the diamond bracelet.
Education and Self-Improvement
Lorelei values improving her mind through literary salons and writing, though her education is funded by Mr. Eisman.
Appearance vs. Reality
Lorelei pretends to have a brother with mumps to avoid Coocoo, and she presents herself as a serious authoress while relying on her looks and charm.
Characters to notice
- Lorelei
Narrator and diarist; reflects on her education, relationships, and literary aspirations.
- Dorothy
Lorelei's friend; introduces Coocoo and quarrels with Lorelei about calling Mr. Eisman by his first name.
- Gus Eisman
The Button King from Chicago; financially supports Lorelei's education and gives her a diamond bracelet for her birthday.
- Mr. Gerald Lamson
English novelist who takes an interest in Lorelei's writing and gives her books by Conrad and his own novels.
- Coocoo
English lord (Lord Cooksleigh) who invites Lorelei to luncheon; she avoids him by claiming her brother has mumps.
- Lulu
Lorelei's maid; helps clean up after the literary evening and comments on the small diamond.
Key passages
“I mean it is no wonder that I can write.”
Lorelei prides herself on her imaginative ability to invent excuses, which she believes makes her a good writer.
Reflects her self-awareness and playful confidence in her storytelling.
“Gentlemen always seem to remember blondes.”
Lorelei believes that her blonde hair makes her memorable to men, linking her appearance to social advantage.
Highlights the theme of appearance vs. reality and gender dynamics.
“I always say that a girl never really looks as well as she does on board a steamship, or even a yacht.”
Lorelei thinks women appear most attractive while on a ship or yacht, associating travel with glamour.
Connects to her interest in novels about ocean travel and her own aspirations.