Fitzgerald epitomized the wild, flamboyant lifestyle of the 1920s, and nearly all his work captured this time period perfectly – so much so that the time period between World War I and the stock market collapse is referred to as the Jazz Age, a moniker taken from his short story collection Tales of the Jazz Age.
He is considered to be a prominent member of the “Lost Generation.” His early novels were well respected but only brought him a modicum of financial success, but it was the publication of The Great Gatsby that has permanently placed him in the ranks of literary genius.
The book was so successful that he and his wife Zelda travelled the world enjoying the celebrity lifestyle. Although he had a great passion for writing, it was nine years between The Great Gatsby and his fourth novel, Tender Is the Night which was not well received by readers, many feeling that this novel did not live up to its predecessor.
His lifestyle proved more expensive than his novels could maintain, and despite a strong distaste for Hollywood, he spent much time writing screenplays and commercial short stories. Regrettably his lifestyle also took a toll on his health, and he died of a massive heart attack at the age of 44.
What wet this writer’s whistle?
The Gin Rickey
2 oz. gin
3/4 oz. lime juice
Club soda
Lime wedge
Pour gin and lime juice into a chilled highball glass filled with ice cubes. Top with club soda, and stir gently. Garnish with lime wedge. Serve with two straws.