A Farewell to Arms · Chapter
XXXVI explained
Frederic and Catherine are warned by the barman that Frederic will be arrested in the morning for being an officer out of uniform after the retreat.
What happens
Frederic and Catherine are warned by the barman that Frederic will be arrested in the morning for being an officer out of uniform after the retreat. They hastily pack and escape by boat across Lake Maggiore to Switzerland, rowing through a stormy night.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it captures the emotional and psychological peak of Frederic’s…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Escape and Retreat
Frederic and Catherine's flight by boat to Switzerland represents a literal and symbolic retreat from the war and its consequences.
- Courage and Cowardice
Frederic's decision to flee rather than face arrest shows a pragmatic courage, while the barman's help demonstrates quiet bravery.
Characters to notice
- Frederic Henry
Awakened by the barman's warning, he decides to flee to Switzerland to avoid arrest.
- Catherine Barkley
Quickly dresses and joins Frederic in the escape, showing calmness and trust.
- Emilio
The barman who warns Frederic of the impending arrest and provides his boat for the escape.
Key passages
“They are going to arrest you in the morning.”
The barman warns Frederic that authorities plan to take him into custody at dawn.
This sets the escape plot in motion.
“I don't want to be arrested.”
Frederic expresses his determination to avoid capture.
Highlights his rejection of the war's authority.
“Go with the wind up the lake.”
The barman advises Frederic to row in the direction of the wind to reach Switzerland.
Symbolizes trusting nature and fate in the escape.
