The Sun Also Rises · Chapter
Chapter V explained
Jake and Robert Cohn have lunch, where Cohn reveals his infatuation with Lady Brett Ashley, leading to a tense argument.
What happens
Jake and Robert Cohn have lunch, where Cohn reveals his infatuation with Lady Brett Ashley, leading to a tense argument. Later, Jake enjoys a peaceful morning working in Paris, then meets Cohn again for another lunch, where Cohn continues to express his frustrations.
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 Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it exposes the hollow core of the Lost Generation’s escapism: Bill’s…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Disillusionment and Aimlessness
Cohn's inability to write and his vague plans to go to South America reflect a sense of aimlessness.
- Love and Sexual Frustration
Cohn's infatuation with Brett and Jake's bitter remarks highlight frustrated romantic desires.
- Expatriation and Alienation
The characters' lives in Paris as expatriates, detached from their home countries, underscore alienation.
Characters to notice
- Jake Barnes
Narrator and protagonist; has lunch with Cohn, works at his office, and later meets Cohn again.
- Robert Cohn
Expresses his love for Brett Ashley, argues with Jake, and later meets him for another lunch.
- Lady Brett Ashley
Discussed by Jake and Cohn; Cohn is infatuated with her, and Jake provides background on her life.
- Mike Campbell
Mentioned as Brett's fiancé, currently in Scotland.
- Krum
Fellow correspondent; shares a taxi with Jake and Woolsey, discusses social life.
- Woolsey
Fellow correspondent; shares a taxi with Jake and Krum.
Key passages
“She's a drunk. She's in love with Mike Campbell, and she's going to marry him.”
Jake dismisses Brett as an alcoholic and states she is committed to Mike.
Jake's blunt assessment of Brett's character and situation.
“You're really about the best friend I have, Jake.”
Cohn declares Jake his closest friend after their argument.
Cohn's reliance on Jake despite their conflict.
“I can't get this second book going.”
Cohn is struggling to make progress on his new writing project.
Cohn's creative block reflects his broader dissatisfaction.
