Why did Hemingway write so spitefully about Zelda and Scott after their deaths? Did this surprise you?
Created: 03/08/13
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Join Date: 01/29/13
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“His [Scott Fitzgerald's] talent was as natural as the pattern that made by the dust on a butterfly's wings. At one time he understood it no more than the butterfly did and-he did not know when it was brushed or marred. Later he became conscious of his damaged wings and of their construction and he learned to think and could not fly any more because the love of flight was gone and he could only remember when it had been effortless.”
- Hemingway
Join Date: 04/28/11
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Hemingway and Scott seemed to be psychologically similar even though they had different interests and styles. Both were insecure alcoholics and neither was particularly graceful. After Scott died, Ernest could be spiteful without fear of retribution. Both thought they were they better writer, there was lots of professional jealousy. As for Zelda, Hemingway blamed her for Scott's problems and faults.
Join Date: 10/06/11
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There was an interesting NPR interview with Therese Anne Fowler where she discusses this question. You can listen to the interview at http://www.npr.org/2013/03/23/174736463/z-tells-the-fitzgeralds-story-from-zeldas-point-of-view.
Join Date: 04/12/12
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I think Hemingway's Ego was way out of line and he would put down anyone or anything in order to raise himself in esteem in the literary world. I was also curious about the author's alluding to something more to Hemingway and Fitzgerald's relationship than just friendship. I think Hemingway's treatment of Zelda stemmed from her rejection of him, which probably didn't happen much to him.
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