The Sun Also Rises · Chapter
VII explained
Jake, Brett, and the Count Mippipopolous dine and drink champagne, then go to Zelli's in Montmartre where Brett and Jake dance.
What happens
Jake, Brett, and the Count Mippipopolous dine and drink champagne, then go to Zelli's in Montmartre where Brett and Jake dance. Brett reveals she plans to marry Mike Campbell. Later, Brett visits Jake's apartment, confesses her misery, and they discuss their impossible relationship. The Count returns with more champagne, and they plan to go to the Bois for dinner.
Themes in this chapter
Alcohol and Hedonism
The characters drink champagne and brandy throughout the evening, using alcohol as a means of escape and social bonding.
Love and Sexual Frustration
Jake and Brett's intimate but impossible love is highlighted; Brett's misery and Jake's repeated feelings of dread underscore their frustrated relationship.
Disillusionment and Aimlessness
Brett's sudden shift from happiness to misery and Jake's sense of repeating a nightmare reflect the aimlessness and emotional numbness of the Lost Generation.
Characters to notice
- Jake Barnes
Narrator; dances with Brett, feels a recurring sense of dread and misery, and struggles with his love for Brett.
- Lady Brett Ashley
Dances with Jake, announces her intention to marry Mike Campbell, expresses misery, and visits Jake's apartment where she discusses their relationship.
- Count Mippipopolous
Hosts the dinner and champagne; shows his arrow wounds from Abyssinia, discusses his values, and remains at Zelli's after Brett and Jake leave.
- Mike Campbell
Mentioned by Brett as the man she plans to marry; described as a splendid dancer and a good letter writer.
Key passages
“You see, Mr. Barnes, it is because I have lived very much that now I can enjoy everything so well. Don't you find it like that?”
The Count explains that his extensive life experience allows him to appreciate everything fully.
The Count articulates his philosophy of valuing life through experience.
“Oh, darling, I'm so miserable.”
Brett suddenly expresses deep unhappiness while dancing with Jake.
Brett's emotional volatility contrasts with the festive atmosphere.
“I had that feeling of going through something that has all happened before.”
Jake experiences a sense of déjà vu and dread.
Jake's recurring nightmare-like feeling underscores his emotional turmoil.
“Couldn't we live together, Brett? Couldn't we just live together?”
Jake asks Brett if they can simply live together as a couple.
Jake's plea reveals his deep desire for a normal relationship despite their obstacles.
“I don't think so. I'd just tromper you with everybody. You couldn't stand it.”
Brett refuses, saying she would inevitably cheat on Jake with everyone.
Brett's honesty about her own nature prevents them from being together.