Before Gatsby: The First Twenty-Six Stories : Book Review

"Before Gatsby" offers readers a captivating collection of F. Scott Fitzgerald's early works, providing a glimpse into the talent that would later propel him to fame with "The Great Gatsby." Within this compilation, readers are treated to Fitzgerald's best short stories, which expertly capture the essence of the Jazz Age and explore themes of love, wealth, and disillusionment.

The collection showcases Fitzgerald's ability to transport readers into the glamorous and turbulent world of the Roaring Twenties. With his vivid descriptions and complex characters, he effortlessly brings the era to life. One of the standout stories in this collection is "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz," a tale that delves into the corrupting influence of wealth and power. Fitzgerald masterfully explores the fine line between extravagance and morality, leaving readers mesmerized.

In "May Day," Fitzgerald addresses the aftermath of World War I and the profound impact it had on a group of friends. This story brilliantly and evocatively captures the mood of post-war America, as well as the disillusionment felt by a generation that had experienced tremendous loss.

Not to be overlooked are the lesser-known works in the collection, such as "The Ice Palace" and "Winter Dreams." Both these stories beautifully portray complex relationships and unrequited love, showcasing Fitzgerald's ability to delve deep into human emotions while simultaneously painting a vivid picture of the social dynamics of the time. Each story builds tension and delivers a satisfying conclusion, showcasing the author's storytelling prowess.

Overall, "Before Gatsby" is an essential read for fans of F. Scott Fitzgerald and those fascinated by the literature of the Jazz Age. This collection not only provides a window into the author's early career but also exemplifies the timeless themes and style that would come to define his later work. Fitzgerald's skillful storytelling, richly drawn characters, and evocative settings solidify his standing as one of the great American writers of the 20th century.

What are readers saying?

The publication of F. Scott Fitzgerald's posthumous novel, "Before Gatsby," has elicited a range of responses from readers. This collection of Fitzgerald's early works provides readers with valuable insight into the development of his writing style and establishment as an author.

One common aspect highlighted in the reviews is a deep appreciation for Fitzgerald's lyrical prose and his ability to capture the essence of the Jazz Age. Readers commend his elegant writing style, noting the vivid descriptions and evocative language that transport them effortlessly to the glamorous world of the 1920s. Many readers praise Fitzgerald's talent for creating atmospheric settings and his keen observations of the emotions and motivations of his characters.

In spite of this admiration, some reviewers express disappointment with "Before Gatsby," suggesting that it pales in comparison to Fitzgerald's later literary masterpieces, such as "The Great Gatsby." These critics argue that the collection lacks the depth of character and coherence that is evident in Fitzgerald's later works, implying that these early writings may not be as refined or fully developed.

Furthermore, some readers are dissatisfied with the overall structure of "Before Gatsby." They claim that the narrative is disjointed and difficult to follow, and that the collection lacks a clear overarching theme or purpose. Certain readers also point out that they were expecting more original material and are let down by the significant portion of previously published short stories included in the book.

On the other hand, there are those who appreciate the opportunity to delve into Fitzgerald's early works, seeing them as valuable insights into his growth as a writer. These readers find these early writings intriguing and believe that they offer a glimpse into Fitzgerald's evolving style and themes.

BeforeGatsbyBook ClassicLiterature FScottFitzgerald