Books

New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1926. First edition, first issue of Fitzgerald's third collection of short stories. Octavo, original green cloth. Fine in a near fine first issue dust jacket with the woman's lips unbattered (Bruccoli, A12). A nice example. All the Sad Young Men is the third collection of short stories written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published by Scribners in February 1926. Fitzgerald wrote the stories at a time of disillusionment. He was in financial difficulty, he believed his wife Zelda was romantically involved with another man, she had suffered a series of physical illnesses, and his play The Vegetable had been a failure. Upon publication—and somewhat belying the notion that Fitzgerald's most famous novel had not been enthusiastically received—the New York Times wrote, "The publication of this volume of short stories might easily have been an anti-climax after the perfection and success of 'The Great Gatsby' of last Spring. A novel so…

"All the Sad Young Men" is a collection of short stories by F. Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1926, reflecting the disillusionment and struggles of the post-World War I generation. Across these stories, Fitzgerald delves into the lives of various characters, primarily from affluent backgrounds, grappling with the challenges of love, ambition, and societal expectations. The collection opens with "The Rich Boy," focusing on Anson Hunter, a wealthy and introspective young man who navigates the complexities of relationships and class distinctions. The story dissects the notion that while the rich possess material wealth, they also endure emotional complexities and vulnerabilities. In "Winter Dreams," Fitzgerald explores the life of Dexter Green, a young man from humble beginnings who falls in love with the glamorous Judy Jones. Their relationship becomes a symbol of unattainable dreams and the emptiness that accompanies the pursuit of an idealized image. Other stories like "The Baby Party" and "Absolution" offer glimpses into the lives of characters dealing with the consequences of their actions, portraying the clash between personal desires and societal norms. Fitzgerald's prose in "All the Sad Young Men" captures the essence of the Jazz Age, depicting the decadence, restlessness, and disillusionment prevalent among the youth of the time. The stories often revolve around themes of lost love, failed aspirations, and the existential struggles faced by individuals striving for fulfillment in a rapidly changing society. Throughout the collection, Fitzgerald's keen observations and lyrical writing style highlight the emotional depth and complexity of his characters. He presents a poignant portrayal of the "lost generation" — a term coined to describe the disillusioned individuals disillusioned by the aftermath of the war and seeking meaning and purpose in a world undergoing profound transformations. The stories in "All the Sad Young Men" collectively offer a mosaic of human experiences, showcasing the yearnings, heartaches, and disillusionments of individuals amidst the glittering facade of wealth and societal expectations, ultimately revealing the fragile nature of human aspirations and the haunting consequences of unfulfilled dreams.