What Book Is Hemingway Talking About in Midnight in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Midnight in Paris is a 2011 romantic comedy film written and directed by Woody Allen. The movie portrays the story of Gil Pender, a struggling writer who travels to Paris with his fiancé and her parents.

While on a midnight stroll, Gil is magically transported back in time to the 1920s, where he meets various famous writers, artists, and intellectuals of that era. One of the central themes of the movie revolves around literature and the love for books.

In one scene, Gil meets Ernest Hemingway, who recommends him to read a novel that he describes as his best work. The book that Hemingway is talking about in Midnight in Paris is A Moveable Feast.

The Story Behind A Moveable Feast

A Moveable Feast is a memoir written by Ernest Hemingway, published posthumously in 1964. It depicts Hemingway’s life as a young writer living in Paris during the 1920s. The book describes his experiences with other writers and artists such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ezra Pound, and Gertrude Stein.

The memoir also details Hemingway’s personal life with his first wife Hadley Richardson and their son Jack. The title of the book refers to Hemingway’s belief that if you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man then wherever you go for the rest of your life it stays with you.

The Significance of A Moveable Feast

A Moveable Feast has become an essential read for any literary enthusiast or aspiring writer looking for inspiration from one of America’s most celebrated authors. The book gives readers an insight into Hemingway’s creative process and how he found inspiration from his surroundings.

The novel also provides readers with an opportunity to learn more about the Lost Generation – a group of American writers who lived in Paris during the 1920s. Hemingway was a part of this group, and his memoir provides readers with a glimpse into the lives of these writers and their artistic pursuits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, A Moveable Feast is a must-read for anyone interested in Hemingway’s work or the literary culture of Paris during the 1920s. The book is a testament to Hemingway’s writing style and provides readers with an insight into his life as a young writer living in Paris.

In Midnight in Paris, Woody Allen pays tribute to Hemingway’s legacy by referencing one of his most notable works. The scene represents the beauty of literature and how it can transcend time and bring people together across generations.