The Importance of Reading Ernest discussion

Please keep your comments to chapters 1 to 5.

I'll start.
Since this is my 1st reading of this novel, I have to say I quite like it.
The narration is flowing effortlessly and I love it how we are let into Robert Jordan's head.

Thanks for all the organizing! You're super. I'm going to be a bit behind.

my pleasure :-)

So I've finally started. I agree with a previous thread that Pillar is pretty cool. Jordan himself seems very arrogant, unless it's all bravado, and a bit stereotypical.
Enjoying it so far, but there's a strong sense of foreboding.

Much foreboding! But I love the strength and clarity of the mission and I like Robert Jordan a lot. I sometimes have to remember that this is 1930's lingo and attitudes but I felt he was very nurturing to Maria. Pilar is Very cool.

My wife's biggest complaint about Hemingway's books are the main male characters. I keep telling her that it's a sign of the times,and reflects men's place in the world,and their behavior was part of trying to fit into the doctrine of the times.....she doesn't buy it.....I believe Jordan's arrogance is all bravado, just wait till you finish the book...... you will see a more sensitive side to the character,and I feel Hemingway was much the same....It was such a strong part of society , back in those days to act tough,and be macho.......

I agree, Gary. He has some strong women. PIlar, Catherine was a nurse; Brett was a floozy but knew what she wanted and was not to be denied. He always had strong balanced women in his life and preferred to marry them --and then divorce them!--for another strong, balanced and intelligent woman.

I keep wondering if Jordan feels insecure on the inside, but thus far I doubt it. Maybe, with all his exposure to war and violence, Hemingway learnt to cultivate a shell of arrogance and bravado to protect himself from his inner vulnerabilities. And then projected this onto his characters. Another option was that maybe he created male characters who were emotionally stronger than he felt himself to be. (I'm thinking aloud).
This is my third Hemingway, Pilar is the first tough female I've encountered.
I know in the situation, toughness in men (and women) would be a survival trait.

Agree, Lisa.