# The Last Night explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by Ring Lardner.

## What happens

Jay Arnold, a Chicago resident devoted to baseball and drinking, learns of the impending Prohibition and the war in Europe. Initially dismissive, he becomes worried and embarks on a final night of drinking, guided by Walter Crowell. The next morning, he wakes up in a hotel, learns he was put to bed by Walter, and discovers that Prohibition hasn't taken effect. Walter reveals he cannot enlist due to poor vision and financial responsibilities. Jay consults a doctor who warns him about his drinking, prompting Jay to decide to sober up and enlist in the war effort. He says goodbye to Eddie, the bartender, and leaves for a health resort to prepare for military service.

## Themes in this chapter

### Alcohol and Escapism

The chapter explores alcohol as a means of escape from reality, with Jay Arnold's heavy drinking and the final binge before he decides to quit.

### Disillusionment and Failure

Walter's inability to enlist due to poor vision and financial constraints highlights a sense of failure and disillusionment with the war effort.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Arnold

Jay Arnold, a baseball fan and heavy drinker, learns about the war and Prohibition, leading to a decision to sober up and enlist.

### Walter Donaldson

Walter Crowell, a young man who leads Jay on a final drinking spree, later apologizes and reveals he cannot enlist due to poor vision.

### Eddie Brock

Eddie, the bartender, is surprised by Jay's decision to quit drinking and enlist, and bids him farewell.

## Key lines

> Looks like as if we'd soon be bone dry.

It seems like we'll soon be without alcohol.

_A stranger on the train predicts Prohibition, sparking Jay's concern._

> I've learned about this war, Eddie. They's fellas right here in this town that want to go and can't. They're tied down with their families or something. And they's fellas all over this country that don't think much of a guy that can go and won't. Well, I can go and I'm going.

I've become aware of the war. Some men can't go because of family obligations, and others look down on those who can but don't. I can go, so I will.

_Jay explains his decision to enlist, motivated by a sense of duty and societal pressure._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_62_se/chapters/the-last-night
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_62_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_62_se/chapters