The novel tells the story of Oliver Barrett IV, who comes from a long line of wealthy and well-respected Harvard University graduates. Partly to break the traditional Ivy League mold, the Harvard student meets and falls in love with Jennifer, a working-class, quick-witted Radcliffe College student. Upon graduation from college, the two decide to marry against the wishes of Oliver’s father, who thereupon severs ties with his son.
Without his father’s financial support, the couple struggles to pay Oliver’s way through Harvard Law School with Jennifer working as a private school teacher. Graduating third in his class, Oliver takes a position at a respectable New York law firm.
With Oliver’s new income, the pair of 24-year-olds decide to have a child. After failing to conceive, they consult a medical specialist, who, after repeated tests, informs Oliver that Jennifer is ill and will soon die.