F. Scott Fitzgerald (Classic Storytellers)

F. Scott Fitzgerald defined the 1920s, calling it the "Jazz Age." His work reflected both the excitement of the decade and the misery of the Great Depression that followed. He is indeed a Classic Storyteller, but like many artists he suffered for his work. Scott’s writing came from dealing with the pain he experienced in his life. Hiding this pain from the outside world and "keeping up appearances" are themes echoed in his work. Although many of the characters Scott wrote about seemed well off, they usually worried about money. While many authors create sympathy for characters who are poor, Scott could get readers rooting for characters who were rich. His novels such as The Great Gatsby are still read and enjoyed not just as reflections of the times in which he lived, but as reflections of his life as well.