Book 1, Chapter 2 Summary

Amory arrives at Princeton and tries to adjust to his new surroundings. This includes both his clothing and college slang terms. He meets Kerry Holiday, another freshman at his boarding house. He quickly develops a relationship with Kerry and his brother, Burne. His first night at Princeton impresses him and makes him long to fit in at the school. He has special hopes of joining the football team. He is successful at first but injures himself and misses the rest of the season. He and Kerry both lament their low social status at Princeton. Amory considers the possibility of a literary career to distinguish himself.

Kerry and Amory play pranks on the others at the boarding house. They also discuss the women that they know. Amory meets Tom D'Invilliers, who introduces him to many new authors and poets. Amory begins writing...