This novel takes on different characteristics with Jake Barnes narrating the story. Using him as a vehicle of information to tell the story adds many key twists and turns in the plot. Using Jake as the key character to revolve the book around is very important for a variety of reasons. Jake's insight to Brett, his approachability with others, and his World War I experiences create an atmosphere that keeps the reader involved. Even though there is tension between several characters in the novel, all of these people still seem to respect and enjoy Jacob Barnes. Robert Cohn had major points of contention with Jacob, Remero, and Michael, but Jake was the only character with whom Robert tried to make amends. Robert respected Jake enough to ask him along to South America. Even though Jake spit the idea back up to him, Robert revered Jake enough to ask his opinion and advice-as he did the night before he went to South America. Listen Jake, don't you ever get the feeling that all of your life is going by and you're not taking advantage of it? Do you realize you've lived nearly half the time you have to live already? Although Jake was not that fond of Robert, he still respected Robert enough to give him advice. Here is an example when Robert asked about going to South America. Listen Robert, going to another country doesn't make any difference. I've tried all that. You can't get away from yourself by moving from one place to another, there's nothing to that. Many of Jacob's friends were very fond of him, thus leading them all to feel very comfortable in his presence. Additionally, they asked for his advice and told him stories and personal details that they would not share with most people. This gave us a distinct advantage in this story. It allowed us to peel back the layers of the characters and see right into them through Jake's eyes. Another reason that Jacob is a key figure in telling the story is his relationship with Brett.
