Across the River and into the Trees by Ernest Hemingway follows the story of an aging American Colonel Richard Cantwell, who, suffering from a heart condition, spends his final days in Italy. The narrative traces his reflections on past wars and his poignant romance with a young Venetian countess named Renata. As Colonel Cantwell revisits old memories and shares his wartime experiences, he confronts the end of his life with dignity and nostalgia.

Ernest Hemingway's Across the River and into the Trees elicits mixed reactions. Critics praise the evocative portrayal of Venice and the nuanced exploration of aging and mortality. However, some find the narrative structure disjointed and the dialogue stilted. While Hemingway's prose captivates, the plot and character development may not resonate with all readers.

Readers who enjoy Across the River and into the Trees by Ernest Hemingway are likely fans of introspective narratives and nuanced character development found in works like The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. They appreciate post-war reflections, poignant romance, and evocative Italian settings similar to A Farewell to Arms.

Melancholic / Contemplative / Romantic / Bittersweet

- Across the River and into the Trees was inspired by Hemingway's own experiences in Venice and his relationship with a young Italian aristocrat, Adriana Ivancich, who also influenced the character of Renata in the novel.
- When the book was released in 1950, it received mixed reviews, with some critics considering it a significant misstep in Hemingway's career, though it has since found a more appreciative audience.
- The novel's title is taken from the last words of Confederate General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson, symbolizing the acceptance of death, a recurring theme in Hemingway's work.

Plot Summary

Book Brief

Explore Across the River and into the Trees reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Book Brief Across the River and into the Trees

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Across the River and into the Trees and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Across the River and into the Trees

Book Brief

Across the River and into the Trees

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Across the River and into the Trees?