Scott Fitzgerald Summary and Analysis

Hemingway relates the first time he meets F. Scott Fitzgerald, in the Dingo bar in Paris. Fitzgerald is with a friend named Dunc Chaplin, a college friend of his who Hemingway finds friendly and pleasant. A "very strange" thing happens which Hemingway says he will never forget.

The men are drinking champagne, and Fitzgerald begins a long discourse on Hemingway's writing and how good it is. This embarrasses Hemingway, and he only half listens to Fitzgerald, instead observing him as he speaks. Hemingway notes his nice clothes and thin appearance, with unusually short legs.

Hemingway is pleased the Fitzgerald finds his writing to be "great," but is also happy when he begins to slow down in his praise. After this "speech," however, Fitzgerald begins asking Hemingway pointed questions. Hemingway is evasive in answering.

As Hemingway observes Fitzgerald's face, a...