A Moveable Feast

Hemingway popularized what is termed the Iceberg Theory, where one can omit an element of the plot and still have that element motivate characters. Where do we see Hemingway apply this theory in A Moveable Feast?

What is the role of horseracing in the book? How does it relate to other major themes, such as hunger and the seasons? Think about what Hemingway means by “a false spring.”

While gender roles are not explicitly referenced, there are major female characters who serve as character foils for one another. Analyze the roles of Hadley Richardson, Gertrude Stein, and Zelda. How do each of these women influence the plot?

Analyze the intersection of fact and fiction. What does Hemingway mean when he writes, “If the reader prefers, this book may be regarded as fiction. But there is always the chance that such a book of fiction may throw some light on what has been written as fact” (3)?

Compile a list of all the writing tools and methods Hemingway lists. How are they related? Does he apply any of these to A Moveable Feast? How does an investigation into writing methods adhere to the coming-of-age theme?

Analyze the character of F. Scott Fitzgerald. Where do Fitzgerald and Hemingway disagree when it comes to writing style? Does Hemingway provide a reliable and accurate character portrait of Fitzgerald?

Provide an analysis of Chapter 16, “An Agent of Evil.” What does Evan Shipman mean when he says, “‘We need more true mystery in our lives, Hem,’ he once said to me. ‘The completely unambitious writer and the really good unpublished poem are the things we lack most at this time. There is, of course, the problem of sustenance’” (66).

Hemingway’s journalistic influence in his writing usually keeps his imagery to a minimum. Where do you see Hemingway use imagery? How does it add to the story?