Should We Still Read The Sun Also Rises?

The Sun Also Rises provides an insightful view into the world of the Lost Generation. It may be filled with anti-Semitism, racism, misogyny, and homophobia that is disgusting but important to acknowledge that it occurs because of the vast impact it has had. In this way, Hemingway’s book can be a good educational resource not just in picking up hidden details but learning about the human character and the fragmented people of its time.

As coined by Gertrude Stein the people of this time are truly a lost generation. They have been broken by their past and hence have found themselves interacting with the world differently. This has led to their rampant alcoholism as well as a feeling of dissatisfaction in various ways by the main characters. The count acts as a point of contrast to Jake and Brett, being totally content with his life and willing to show goodwill to anyone. It begs the question of whether the other characters are unable to be happy because of their past or an unwillingness to find a compromise for their own happiness because of how they are as a person.

Hemingway’s novel, as well as his other works come off as being very simplistic, with little meaning at first glance but having much more to them if you read into it. As a result of this, it is a useful book for teenagers to read as a tool to hone their skills. However, it is a book argued against for its offensive comments against many groups, in such a way that is unhelpful to the plot. But it is arguable that it is important to acknowledge that this hatred existed so it can be used as a source of education rather than leave young people ignorant to the past that in many ways affects the future.

Hemingway’s book The Sun Also Rises is one some may be bored or angered by; however, it is important to be read because of the education it can spur and the insight you can get into a generation of people, changed by their past. It is not a perfect book, and may not be near your list of favorites, however, it is one that can raise your understanding of people in a way that is meaningful.