The lost generation

Definition

The lost generation refers to a group of American writers who emerged during the aftermath of World War I, characterized by their disillusionment with traditional values and the search for meaning in a post-war society. This term embodies the sentiments of a generation that felt disconnected from the world around them, often expressing their struggles through themes of alienation, cynicism, and existential questioning in their literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Key figures associated with the lost generation include Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein, who were influential in shaping modern American literature.
2. The lost generation's literature often critiques the moral decay and materialism of post-war America, reflecting their deep sense of disillusionment.
3. Many lost generation writers found solace and community in Paris during the 1920s, which became a hub for artistic expression and intellectual exchange.
4. The term was popularized by Gertrude Stein, who used it to describe the young Americans who were traumatized by World War I.
5. Lost generation literature often features themes of existentialism, exploring questions of identity, purpose, and the human condition in a rapidly changing world.

Review Questions

• How did the experiences of World War I contribute to the formation of the lost generation's literary themes?
  • The experiences of World War I played a significant role in shaping the lost generation's literary themes by exposing writers to the horrors of conflict and the resulting societal upheaval. Many authors felt profound disillusionment with the values that had led to such devastation, prompting them to critique traditional notions of heroism and morality. This collective trauma fostered a sense of alienation and existential questioning that permeated their works.
• In what ways did Paris serve as a refuge for lost generation writers, and how did this impact their work?
  • Paris served as a refuge for lost generation writers due to its vibrant cultural scene and acceptance of diverse artistic expressions. The city allowed these writers to escape the constraints of American society while also fostering connections with fellow expatriates. This environment inspired many works that reflected their experiences of dislocation and identity exploration, showcasing themes that resonated deeply with contemporary readers.
• Evaluate how the lost generation's perspective on American values influenced later literary movements or authors.
  • The lost generation's perspective on American values significantly influenced later literary movements by challenging established norms and encouraging future authors to explore themes of disillusionment, identity crisis, and social critique. Writers such as Jack Kerouac and William S. Burroughs drew inspiration from the lost generation's questioning of societal expectations, leading to more radical explorations of culture in works like 'On the Road' and 'Naked Lunch.' This legacy can be seen as a precursor to postmodern literature, where fragmentation and complexity became central themes.

Related terms

disillusionment: A feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be, common among lost generation writers reflecting on societal norms after the war.

modernism: A broad cultural movement that arose in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, modernism is marked by a break with traditional forms and a focus on new styles and themes, significantly influencing lost generation literature.

expatriate: A person who lives outside their native country; many lost generation writers chose to live in Europe, particularly Paris, seeking inspiration and escape from American society.