American Literature – 1860 to Present

2.6 F. Scott Fitzgerald

Citation:

F. Scott Fitzgerald, a key figure in American literature, captured the essence of the Jazz Age in his writings. His works, including "The Great Gatsby," explored themes of the American Dream, wealth, and social class.

Fitzgerald's personal experiences, from his early life to his struggles with alcoholism, deeply influenced his writing. His lyrical prose style and complex characters continue to resonate with readers, cementing his legacy in American culture.

Early life and education

F. Scott Fitzgerald's early life shaped his perspective on American society and class dynamics, influencing his later literary works
His experiences during this period provided rich material for his novels and short stories, reflecting the cultural shifts of the early 20th century
Fitzgerald's education and military service exposed him to diverse social circles, informing his keen observations of human behavior

Family background

Born Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald on September 24, 1896, in St. Paul, Minnesota
Descended from prominent families on both sides, with a mix of Irish and English ancestry
Father's furniture business failure led to financial instability, creating a lasting impact on Fitzgerald's views of wealth and status
Mother's family wealth provided some financial support and social connections
Experienced contrast between upper-class aspirations and middle-class reality, fueling his literary themes

Princeton years

Attended Princeton University from 1913 to 1917, though did not graduate
Developed his writing skills through contributions to campus publications (Nassau Literary Magazine, Princeton Tiger)
Formed important friendships with future literary figures (Edmund Wilson, John Peale Bishop)
Academic struggles and social pursuits foreshadowed themes in his later works
Began writing his first novel, "The Romantic Egotist," which later evolved into "This Side of Paradise"

Military service

Enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1917 during World War I
Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the infantry
Stationed at Camp Sheridan in Montgomery, Alabama, where he met Zelda Sayre
Never deployed overseas, the war ended before he could be sent to Europe
Military experience provided material for future stories and shaped his views on masculinity and heroism

Literary career

Fitzgerald's literary career spanned the vibrant 1920s and the tumultuous 1930s, reflecting the changing American landscape
His works captured the essence of the Jazz Age and explored the complexities of the American Dream
Fitzgerald's rise to prominence and subsequent struggles mirrored the boom and bust cycles of the era he chronicled

Early works

Published his first short story, "The Mysterious Mr. Flip," in 1917 in the St. Paul Academy school newspaper
Debut novel "This Side of Paradise" (1920) achieved immediate success, launching his literary career
Early short stories appeared in popular magazines (Saturday Evening Post, Scribner's Magazine)
Established reputation as a chronicler of the Jazz Age with stories like "Bernice Bobs Her Hair" and "The Ice Palace"
Explored themes of youth, ambition, and societal expectations in his early works

Rise to prominence

Success of "This Side of Paradise" made Fitzgerald a literary celebrity overnight
Became a regular contributor to high-paying magazines, allowing for a lavish lifestyle
Published "The Beautiful and Damned" (1922), solidifying his status as a major American author
Short story collections "Flappers and Philosophers" (1920) and "Tales of the Jazz Age" (1922) further expanded his readership
Gained recognition for capturing the spirit and excesses of the Roaring Twenties

The Great Gatsby

Published in 1925, initially received mixed reviews but later hailed as a masterpiece
Considered Fitzgerald's magnum opus and a quintessential American novel
Explored themes of the American Dream, wealth, and social class in the Jazz Age
Innovative narrative structure with Nick Carraway as the narrator and observer
Use of symbolism and imagery (green light, eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg) to convey deeper meanings
Characters like Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan became iconic figures in American literature

Later novels

"Tender Is the Night" (1934) drew from Fitzgerald's personal experiences and struggles
Explored themes of mental illness, marital discord, and the decline of the American Dream
"The Last Tycoon" (unfinished, published posthumously in 1941) focused on the Hollywood film industry
Later works showed a shift towards more complex, mature themes and darker tones
Struggled with critical and commercial reception of his later novels during his lifetime

Themes in Fitzgerald's writing

Fitzgerald's works consistently explored the complexities and contradictions of American society
His themes reflected both the exuberance of the 1920s and the disillusionment of the 1930s
Fitzgerald's personal experiences often informed his exploration of these themes, lending authenticity to his narratives

American Dream

Central theme in many of Fitzgerald's works, particularly "The Great Gatsby"
Explored the pursuit of wealth, success, and social mobility in American society
Critiqued the hollowness and corruption behind the façade of the American Dream
Characters often strive for idealized versions of success, leading to disillusionment
Examined the tension between old money and new money in American social hierarchies
Portrayed the American Dream as both alluring and ultimately unattainable or unsatisfying

Jazz Age society

Captured the spirit, excesses, and contradictions of the 1920s in America
Depicted the hedonistic lifestyle, parties, and social gatherings of the era
Explored the changing social norms and values, particularly regarding gender roles
Critiqued the superficiality and moral decay beneath the glittering surface of society
Portrayed the impact of new technologies and cultural shifts (automobiles, jazz music)
Characters often embody the restlessness and search for meaning characteristic of the period

Wealth and class

Examined the impact of wealth on individual character and social relationships
Portrayed the stark contrasts between different social classes in American society
Explored the corrupting influence of money and the pursuit of material success
Depicted the social barriers and prejudices based on wealth and family background
Characters often struggle with the consequences of crossing class boundaries
Critiqued the emptiness and moral bankruptcy often associated with extreme wealth

Love and romance

Portrayed complex and often troubled romantic relationships in his works
Explored the impact of social expectations and class differences on love
Depicted the tension between idealized romance and the realities of married life
Characters frequently pursue passionate but ultimately destructive relationships
Examined the role of wealth and status in shaping romantic aspirations and choices
Often portrayed love as a transformative but potentially destabilizing force in characters' lives

Writing style and techniques

Fitzgerald's distinctive writing style set him apart as a major figure in American literature
His techniques evolved over time, reflecting his growth as a writer and changing literary trends
Fitzgerald's approach to storytelling influenced subsequent generations of writers

Lyrical prose

Known for his elegant, poetic language that captures emotions and atmosphere
Used vivid descriptions and evocative metaphors to create rich, sensory experiences
Employed rhythmic sentences and carefully crafted phrases for musical quality
Balanced ornate language with moments of stark simplicity for dramatic effect
Incorporated elements of poetry into his prose, blurring the lines between genres
Ability to convey complex emotions and ideas through beautifully constructed sentences

Symbolism and imagery

Utilized powerful symbols to represent abstract concepts and themes
Created memorable imagery that often carried deeper meanings (green light in "The Great Gatsby")
Used color symbolism to convey mood and character traits (yellow associated with corruption)
Employed recurring motifs to reinforce themes throughout his works
Created vivid visual scenes that often served as metaphors for characters' internal states
Balanced obvious symbols with more subtle, layered imagery for depth of interpretation

Narrative structure

Experimented with non-linear storytelling and multiple perspectives
Used framing devices and unreliable narrators to add complexity to his stories
Employed flashbacks and time jumps to reveal character backgrounds and motivations
Created tension through careful pacing and strategic revelation of information
Balanced dialogue, description, and internal monologue to create dynamic narratives
Often structured novels and stories around significant events or gatherings (parties, holidays)

Character development

Created complex, multifaceted characters that defy simple categorization
Utilized internal monologues and free indirect discourse to reveal characters' thoughts
Developed characters through their actions, dialogue, and interactions with others
Explored the psychological depths of characters, revealing their fears, desires, and contradictions
Used secondary characters to illuminate aspects of main characters' personalities
Portrayed character growth (or lack thereof) as central to the narrative arc of his stories

Personal life and relationships

Fitzgerald's personal experiences deeply influenced his writing and public persona
His tumultuous relationships and struggles with addiction shaped his literary themes
The intertwining of his personal life and professional career became a subject of public fascination

Marriage to Zelda Sayre

Met Zelda in 1918 during his military service in Montgomery, Alabama
Married in 1920 after the success of "This Side of Paradise"
Their relationship characterized by passion, creativity, and mutual destructiveness
Zelda's mental health issues and Fitzgerald's alcoholism strained their marriage
Their lifestyle and personalities inspired characters and situations in Fitzgerald's works
Zelda's own artistic pursuits (writing, painting) sometimes led to competition and conflict

Expatriate years in Europe

Lived in France and Italy during the 1920s, part of the "Lost Generation" of American expatriates
Socialized with other prominent writers and artists (Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein)
European experiences influenced settings and themes in works like "Tender Is the Night"
Exposed to different cultural perspectives, enriching his understanding of American identity
Struggled with maintaining productivity amid the distractions of expatriate life
Return to the United States marked a shift in both his personal life and writing style

Struggles with alcoholism

Battled alcohol addiction throughout his adult life, impacting his health and career
Drinking often interfered with his writing process and professional relationships
Periods of sobriety alternated with destructive binges, mirroring cycles in his work
Alcoholism became a recurring theme in his later works, explored with increasing frankness
Attempts at recovery and relapse paralleled the ups and downs of his literary career
His struggles with addiction contributed to his declining health in later years

Cultural impact and legacy

Fitzgerald's work has had a lasting influence on American literature and popular culture
His portrayal of the Jazz Age has shaped public perception of the 1920s
Fitzgerald's themes and style continue to resonate with readers and inspire new interpretations

Influence on American literature

Helped establish the novel as a vehicle for social criticism and cultural commentary
Influenced subsequent generations of writers in style, themes, and narrative techniques
Contributed to the development of the "Great American Novel" concept
Pioneered the use of contemporary settings and language in serious literature
Blurred lines between popular and literary fiction, paving way for future authors
His works became staples of American literature curricula, shaping literary education

Adaptations of works

Numerous film adaptations of "The Great Gatsby" (1974 with Robert Redford, 2013 with Leonardo DiCaprio)
Television adaptations of various short stories and novels
Stage productions based on his works, including musicals and plays
Graphic novel adaptations introducing his stories to new audiences
Influence on popular music, with references in lyrics and album concepts
Digital media adaptations, including interactive experiences and video games

Critical reception over time

Initial mixed reviews for some works, including "The Great Gatsby"
Rediscovery and critical reappraisal after Fitzgerald's death
Elevation to canonical status in American literature by mid-20th century
Ongoing scholarly interest in analyzing themes, techniques, and historical context
Debates over interpretation and relevance of his works to contemporary issues
Continued popularity among general readers, with steady sales and new editions

Notable works

Fitzgerald's literary output includes novels, short stories, and essays that have become classics
His works span different phases of his career, reflecting his evolving style and concerns
Many of his writings continue to be widely read, studied, and adapted

This Side of Paradise

Fitzgerald's debut novel, published in 1920
Semi-autobiographical story of Amory Blaine's coming of age
Explored themes of youth, ambition, and disillusionment
Innovative in structure, incorporating poetry, letters, and play-like dialogue
Captured the spirit of the post-World War I generation
Immediate commercial success, establishing Fitzgerald as a literary voice of his generation

The Beautiful and Damned

Second novel, published in 1922
Chronicled the lives of Anthony and Gloria Patch, a young couple in New York
Examined the decadence and ennui of the wealthy elite
Critiqued the pursuit of pleasure and the corrosive effects of idleness
Showcased Fitzgerald's evolving style and deeper exploration of character psychology
Drew from his own experiences of early marriage and social life in New York

Tender Is the Night

Published in 1934, considered by Fitzgerald to be his best work
Set on the French Riviera, telling the story of Dick and Nicole Diver
Explored themes of mental illness, marital breakdown, and the decline of idealism
Utilized a complex narrative structure with time shifts and multiple perspectives
Drew heavily from Fitzgerald's personal experiences with Zelda's mental health issues
Initially received mixed reviews but later recognized as one of his major works

Short story collections

"Flappers and Philosophers" (1920): First collection, including "Bernice Bobs Her Hair"
"Tales of the Jazz Age" (1922): Featured "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz"
"All the Sad Young Men" (1926): Included "The Rich Boy" and "Winter Dreams"
"Taps at Reveille" (1935): His final collection published during his lifetime
Stories often appeared in magazines before being collected in books
Demonstrated Fitzgerald's mastery of the short form and ability to capture zeitgeist

Fitzgerald and the Lost Generation

Fitzgerald was a key figure in the group of expatriate American writers known as the Lost Generation
His experiences abroad deeply influenced his writing and worldview
The post-World War I disillusionment shared by this group is reflected in much of Fitzgerald's work

Expatriate community in Paris

Lived in Paris during the 1920s, part of a vibrant community of American artists and writers
Frequented famous cafes and salons, engaging in intellectual and artistic discussions
Experienced the freedom and cultural stimulation of Parisian life
Witnessed and participated in the avant-garde movements of the time
Developed friendships and rivalries with other expatriate writers
Paris served as a backdrop and inspiration for several of his works

Relationships with other writers

Close but complicated friendship with Ernest Hemingway
Interactions with Gertrude Stein, who coined the term "Lost Generation"
Connections with other expatriate writers like John Dos Passos and Archibald MacLeish
Mutual influence and criticism among the group of American writers abroad
Competitive relationships often fueled creative output and literary debates
Correspondence and collaborations with writers both in Europe and back in the United States

Post-war disillusionment

Reflected the sense of aimlessness and moral confusion following World War I
Explored themes of alienation and the search for meaning in a changed world
Critiqued traditional values and social norms that seemed hollow after the war
Portrayed characters struggling to find purpose in the face of societal upheaval
Examined the contrast between pre-war idealism and post-war cynicism
Used the excesses of the Jazz Age as a backdrop to explore deeper existential questions

Decline and final years

Fitzgerald's later years were marked by personal and professional struggles
Despite challenges, he continued to write and adapt to changing literary landscapes
His final works and posthumous recognition cemented his place in American literature

Hollywood years

Moved to Hollywood in 1937 to work as a screenwriter
Struggled to adapt to the collaborative and commercial nature of film writing
Worked on various film projects, often uncredited or with limited success
Experienced financial difficulties and continued battles with alcoholism
Used Hollywood experiences as material for his final novel, "The Last Tycoon"
Maintained connections with the literary world while navigating the film industry

The Last Tycoon

Fitzgerald's final, unfinished novel, published posthumously in 1941
Based on his experiences in Hollywood, centered on film producer Monroe Stahr
Explored themes of power, artistry, and the American Dream in the context of the film industry
Demonstrated a mature, more restrained writing style compared to earlier works
Left incomplete at the time of Fitzgerald's death, with notes for the remaining chapters
Edited and published by his friend and fellow writer Edmund Wilson

Posthumous recognition

Renewed interest in Fitzgerald's work after his death in 1940
"The Great Gatsby" gained widespread recognition as a classic of American literature
Scholarly studies and biographies contributed to a deeper understanding of his life and work
Inclusion of his novels and stories in academic curricula solidified his literary status
Continued adaptations of his works for film, television, and stage
Influence on subsequent generations of writers and enduring popularity with readers

Key Terms to Review (18)

Scott Donaldson: Scott Donaldson is a prominent American literary scholar and critic, known for his extensive work on the life and writings of F. Scott Fitzgerald. His analyses often provide insight into the complexities of Fitzgerald's characters and themes, shedding light on the societal contexts that influenced his work. Donaldson's contributions help to deepen the understanding of Fitzgerald's place in American literature, particularly during the Jazz Age.

Matthew Bruccoli: Matthew Bruccoli was an American scholar and critic known for his extensive work on F. Scott Fitzgerald and 20th-century American literature. He played a vital role in the revival of interest in Fitzgerald's work, producing critical biographies, edited collections, and contributing to the understanding of Fitzgerald's literary significance and impact.

His struggle with alcoholism: His struggle with alcoholism refers to the personal battle F. Scott Fitzgerald faced with alcohol addiction, which significantly impacted his life, career, and relationships. This struggle is deeply intertwined with his identity as a writer and is reflected in his works, often exploring themes of excess, despair, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.

Fitzgerald's Marriage to Zelda: F. Scott Fitzgerald's marriage to Zelda Sayre was a pivotal relationship that deeply influenced both his personal life and literary career. Their tumultuous union is often seen as a reflection of the excesses and struggles of the Jazz Age, capturing the themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations that permeate Fitzgerald's works. The complexities of their marriage, marked by passion, mental health struggles, and financial instability, shaped much of Fitzgerald's writing, including his most famous novel, 'The Great Gatsby.'

Marxist Interpretations: Marxist interpretations refer to a critical approach that analyzes literature and culture through the lens of Karl Marx's theories about class struggle, capitalism, and social inequality. This perspective focuses on the ways in which socio-economic conditions shape individual experiences and literary texts, emphasizing the power dynamics between different classes. By examining the role of economic structures in shaping characters, themes, and narratives, Marxist interpretations highlight how literature reflects and critiques societal injustices.

Prohibition Era: The Prohibition Era refers to the period in American history from 1920 to 1933 when the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned under the 18th Amendment. This time was characterized by a significant cultural shift, as it fueled the rise of speakeasies, organized crime, and a public rebellion against the law. The era is closely associated with social movements advocating for temperance, which ultimately led to the eventual repeal of the amendment.

Roaring twenties: The roaring twenties refers to the decade of the 1920s in the United States, characterized by significant social, cultural, and economic change following World War I. This period was marked by a booming economy, the rise of jazz music, and a shift towards more modern social norms, including greater freedoms for women and the emergence of consumer culture. It was a time of excitement and liberation, often celebrated in literature and art.

Daisy Buchanan: Daisy Buchanan is a central character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel 'The Great Gatsby,' representing the elusive American Dream and the complexities of love and wealth in the Jazz Age. She is depicted as beautiful and charming but also shallow and self-centered, embodying the contradictions of the 1920s elite and the social mores of her time. Daisy's relationships, particularly with Jay Gatsby and her husband Tom Buchanan, reveal the destructive nature of desire and the unattainable ideal of happiness.

Jay Gatsby: Jay Gatsby is a central character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel 'The Great Gatsby,' symbolizing the American Dream and its disillusionment. Known for his lavish parties and mysterious background, Gatsby is a self-made millionaire who strives to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. His extravagant lifestyle and relentless pursuit of wealth reveal the darker side of ambition and the social stratification of 1920s America.

Social class disparity: Social class disparity refers to the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges among different social classes in society. This inequality can manifest in various ways, including differences in income, education, healthcare access, and social status, often leading to significant gaps between the wealthy elite and those in lower socioeconomic groups. Understanding this term is crucial for analyzing the societal structures and cultural contexts that contribute to such inequalities.

This Side of Paradise: This Side of Paradise is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald published in 1920, which explores themes of youth, love, and the disillusionment of the American Dream. It marks Fitzgerald's debut and is known for its vivid portrayal of post-World War I society, as well as its introspective examination of the main character, Amory Blaine, who navigates the challenges of identity and social status. The novel captures the exuberance and contradictions of a generation striving for meaning and fulfillment in a rapidly changing world.

Jazz Age: The Jazz Age refers to the period in the 1920s characterized by a surge in jazz music, cultural dynamism, and significant social changes in the United States. This era saw the emergence of new cultural norms, including a challenge to traditional values, the rise of consumerism, and a flourishing of arts and literature, particularly in urban settings. The Jazz Age is often associated with a sense of freedom and the spirit of innovation that defined American culture during this time.

The American Dream: The American Dream is the ideal that through hard work, determination, and perseverance, anyone can achieve success and upward social mobility in the United States. This concept is often tied to the idea of opportunity, freedom, and prosperity, but also reflects the complexities and contradictions of American society, especially when viewed through different literary lenses. As seen in various works, the American Dream embodies hope and ambition but can also reveal disillusionment and failure.

Feminist readings: Feminist readings refer to a critical approach in literature that examines texts through the lens of gender, focusing on the roles, perspectives, and experiences of women. This approach often highlights the ways in which literature reflects or challenges societal norms regarding gender and power dynamics. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context and the impact of patriarchy on the portrayal of female characters and their narratives.

The Great Gatsby: The Great Gatsby is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1925, that explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream during the Jazz Age. It captures the essence of Modernism through its innovative narrative style and rich symbolism while reflecting the disillusionment of a generation known as the Lost Generation. The novel is often regarded as a key example of the Great American Novel concept, representing the complexities of American society in the 1920s.

Symbolism: Symbolism is a literary device where symbols are used to represent ideas, concepts, or emotions beyond their literal meaning. This technique allows writers to convey deeper meanings and evoke certain feelings, creating layers of significance within a text. It often serves as a bridge between the concrete and the abstract, enriching the reader's experience and understanding.

Stream of consciousness: Stream of consciousness is a narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts, feelings, and sensory experiences of characters as they occur in real time. This style often reflects the inner workings of the mind and emphasizes a subjective perspective, allowing readers to experience characters' thoughts in a direct and often fragmented manner.

Modernism: Modernism is a cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a deliberate break from traditional forms and an exploration of new techniques and ideas in art, literature, and philosophy. This movement reflects the complexities of a rapidly changing world, often questioning established norms and conventions, which connects deeply with various literary styles and thematic explorations.

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🏜️american literature – 1860 to present review