“The Lees of Happiness” is a short story written by F. Scott Fitzgerald that tells the tale of a couple, Joan and Richard, who embark on a journey to find happiness. The story is filled with twists and turns as the couple navigates their way through life, searching for the elusive feeling of contentment. In this article, we will provide a summary of “The Lees of Happiness” and explore the themes and motifs that Fitzgerald employs throughout the story.
The Plot of “The Lees of Happiness”
“The Lees of Happiness” is a short story written by F. Scott Fitzgerald that tells the story of a couple, Francis and Keats, who are deeply in love and decide to leave their mundane lives behind to embark on a journey to find happiness. The couple leaves their jobs, sells their possessions, and sets out on a road trip across America. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and challenges, but they remain determined to find their happiness. However, as they continue their journey, they begin to realize that happiness is not something that can be found externally, but rather it is something that comes from within. The story ends with the couple returning home, having learned a valuable lesson about the true meaning of happiness.”
The Main Characters of “The Lees of Happiness”
The main characters of “The Lees of Happiness” are a married couple named Otis and Edith Lee. Otis is a successful businessman who has made a fortune in the oil industry, while Edith is a former actress who gave up her career to marry Otis. The couple is described as being deeply in love and devoted to each other, but they also have their share of problems. Otis is prone to fits of jealousy and insecurity, while Edith struggles with feelings of boredom and restlessness. Despite these challenges, the Lees are determined to make their marriage work and find happiness together.
The Setting of “The Lees of Happiness”
The setting of “The Lees of Happiness” is a small town in the Midwest, where the main characters, Otis and Laurie Lee, have settled after their honeymoon. The town is described as “a place where nothing ever happened,” and the Lees are initially content with their simple life. However, as the story progresses, the couple becomes increasingly dissatisfied with their mundane existence and long for something more exciting. The contrast between the dull town and the Lees’ desire for adventure creates a sense of tension throughout the story. Fitzgerald’s vivid descriptions of the town and its inhabitants add depth to the setting and help to convey the characters’ emotions. Overall, the setting of “The Lees of Happiness” plays a crucial role in the story’s themes of longing and dissatisfaction.
The Themes of “The Lees of Happiness”
One of the main themes in “The Lees of Happiness” is the pursuit of happiness and the idea that it is often elusive. The story follows the lives of two characters, Otis and Laurie, who are in search of happiness in their own ways. Otis believes that happiness can be found through material possessions and financial success, while Laurie seeks happiness through love and relationships. However, both characters ultimately realize that happiness cannot be bought or found in another person, but rather it comes from within. Another theme in the story is the idea of fate and how it can shape our lives. Otis and Laurie’s paths cross multiple times throughout the story, and it is suggested that their meeting was not a coincidence but rather a predetermined event. This theme adds a sense of inevitability to the story and highlights the idea that our lives are often guided by forces beyond our control.
The Symbolism in “The Lees of Happiness”
In “The Lees of Happiness,” F. Scott Fitzgerald uses symbolism to convey the themes of love, happiness, and the fleeting nature of both. The title itself is symbolic, as “lees” refers to the sediment at the bottom of a wine barrel, representing the remnants of happiness that are left behind after it has been consumed.
The main characters, Otis and Laurie, are also symbolic of the pursuit of happiness. Otis, a successful businessman, represents the materialistic pursuit of happiness, while Laurie, an artist, represents the pursuit of happiness through creativity and passion.
The setting of the story, a small town in the French Riviera, is also symbolic. The idyllic surroundings represent the fleeting nature of happiness, as it can be easily disrupted by external factors.
Overall, the symbolism in “The Lees of Happiness” adds depth and meaning to the story, highlighting the universal themes of love and happiness that are still relevant today.
The Writing Style of “The Lees of Happiness”
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s writing style in “The Lees of Happiness” is characterized by his use of vivid imagery and descriptive language. He paints a picture of the idyllic life of the Lees, a young couple who move to the French Riviera in search of happiness. Fitzgerald’s prose is lyrical and poetic, with a focus on the beauty of nature and the joys of love. He also employs a subtle sense of humor throughout the story, adding a touch of whimsy to the narrative. Overall, Fitzgerald’s writing style in “The Lees of Happiness” is both romantic and whimsical, capturing the essence of a carefree and joyful existence.
The Reception of “The Lees of Happiness”
“The Lees of Happiness” was met with mixed reviews upon its publication in 1920. Some critics praised Fitzgerald’s ability to capture the essence of the Jazz Age and the disillusionment of the post-World War I generation. Others criticized the story as shallow and lacking in substance. Despite the mixed reception, the story has endured as a classic example of Fitzgerald’s writing style and his ability to capture the zeitgeist of his era. Today, “The Lees of Happiness” is considered a must-read for anyone interested in the literature of the 1920s and the cultural changes that defined the era.
The Significance of the Title “The Lees of Happiness”
The title of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story, “The Lees of Happiness,” holds significant meaning in relation to the themes and characters within the narrative. The word “lees” refers to the sediment or residue left behind after the fermentation process of wine-making. This metaphorical reference to the characters’ past experiences and emotions suggests that they are still grappling with the aftermath of their past actions and decisions. The title also hints at the idea that happiness is not a permanent state, but rather a fleeting moment that can be easily disrupted by the residue of one’s past. Overall, the title serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of happiness and the lasting impact of our choices.
The Historical Context of “The Lees of Happiness”
The historical context of “The Lees of Happiness” is essential to understanding the story’s themes and characters. The story was published in 1920, a time when the United States was experiencing significant social and cultural changes. The country had just emerged from World War I, and the Roaring Twenties were beginning to take shape. This period was marked by a sense of optimism and prosperity, as people sought to enjoy life after the hardships of the war.
Fitzgerald’s story reflects this cultural moment, as it follows the journey of a young couple, Diana and David Lee, who are searching for happiness and fulfillment. The Lees are representative of the young, affluent, and carefree individuals who were coming of age during this time. They are portrayed as idealistic and romantic, seeking to escape the constraints of society and find true happiness.
However, the story also reflects the darker side of this cultural moment. The Lees’ pursuit of happiness is ultimately futile, as they are unable to find lasting satisfaction in their material possessions and romantic relationships. The story suggests that the pursuit of happiness is a complex and elusive goal, one that cannot be achieved through superficial means.
Overall, the historical context of “The Lees of Happiness” provides important insights into the story’s themes and characters. It highlights the cultural moment in which the story was written and suggests that the pursuit of happiness is a timeless and universal human experience.
The Relationship Between F. Scott Fitzgerald and “The Lees of Happiness”
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s relationship with his short story “The Lees of Happiness” was a complicated one. The story, which was published in 1920, was one of Fitzgerald’s earliest works and marked the beginning of his career as a writer. However, despite its success, Fitzgerald was never entirely satisfied with the story and often expressed his frustration with it. In a letter to his editor, Maxwell Perkins, Fitzgerald wrote, “I’m not sure that ‘The Lees of Happiness’ is really a story at all. It’s more like a sketch or a fragment.” Despite his reservations, “The Lees of Happiness” remains a beloved work of fiction and a testament to Fitzgerald’s early talent.
The Influence of “The Lees of Happiness” on Fitzgerald’s Other Works
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Lees of Happiness” is a short story that has had a significant impact on his other works. The story, which follows a couple’s journey to find happiness, explores themes of love, wealth, and the pursuit of the American Dream. These themes are prevalent in many of Fitzgerald’s other works, including his most famous novel, “The Great Gatsby.”
In “The Great Gatsby,” Fitzgerald explores the idea of the American Dream through the character of Jay Gatsby, who believes that he can achieve happiness and success through wealth and status. Similarly, in “The Lees of Happiness,” the main characters, Otis and Laurie, believe that their happiness is tied to their financial success.
Fitzgerald also uses similar motifs in both works, such as the use of parties and social gatherings to represent the excess and decadence of the wealthy. In “The Lees of Happiness,” Otis and Laurie throw extravagant parties to impress their friends and show off their wealth. In “The Great Gatsby,” Gatsby’s parties are legendary for their opulence and excess.
Overall, “The Lees of Happiness” has had a significant influence on Fitzgerald’s other works, particularly in its exploration of the American Dream and the pursuit of happiness through wealth and status. The story’s themes and motifs can be seen throughout his writing, making it an important piece in understanding Fitzgerald’s literary legacy.
The Comparison of “The Lees of Happiness” to Other Works of Fitzgerald
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Lees of Happiness” is often compared to his other works, particularly “The Great Gatsby” and “Tender is the Night.” While all three works explore themes of love, wealth, and the American Dream, “The Lees of Happiness” stands out for its more optimistic tone. Unlike the tragic endings of “The Great Gatsby” and “Tender is the Night,” “The Lees of Happiness” concludes with a happy ending for its main characters. Additionally, the story’s focus on the importance of human connection and the power of love sets it apart from Fitzgerald’s other works, which often emphasize the destructive nature of love and relationships. Overall, “The Lees of Happiness” offers a refreshing and uplifting perspective on life and love, making it a unique addition to Fitzgerald’s literary canon.
The Adaptations of “The Lees of Happiness” in Other Forms of Media
“The Lees of Happiness” by F. Scott Fitzgerald has been adapted into various forms of media, including film and television. In 1924, a silent film adaptation was released, directed by George Fitzmaurice and starring Gloria Swanson and Lionel Barrymore. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising Swanson’s performance while others criticized the changes made to the original story.
In 1958, the story was adapted for television as part of the anthology series “Playhouse 90.” The episode starred Anne Baxter and James Mason and was well-received by critics.
More recently, “The Lees of Happiness” has been adapted into a stage play. The play, written by Ron Hutchinson, premiered in 2015 at the Irish Repertory Theatre in New York City. The production received positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of the cast and the adaptation of Fitzgerald’s story for the stage.
Overall, “The Lees of Happiness” has proven to be a versatile and enduring work, inspiring adaptations in various forms of media over the years.
The Analysis of the Ending of “The Lees of Happiness”
The ending of “The Lees of Happiness” is a poignant and thought-provoking conclusion to the story. After years of struggling to find happiness, the main characters, Otis and Laurie Lee, finally seem to have found it in their love for each other. However, this happiness is short-lived as Otis tragically dies in a plane crash while on a business trip.
The ending is bittersweet, as the reader is left with the impression that Otis and Laurie’s love was genuine and true, but ultimately unable to overcome the cruel hand of fate. Fitzgerald’s use of imagery and symbolism in the final paragraphs, such as the “cold, white moon” and the “dull, gray sea,” adds to the melancholic tone of the ending.
Overall, the ending of “The Lees of Happiness” is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments of joy and love that we are fortunate enough to experience.
The Role of Money and Materialism in “The Lees of Happiness”
In “The Lees of Happiness,” F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the role of money and materialism in the lives of his characters. The story follows the journey of a young couple, Joan and Harold, as they navigate their way through marriage and financial success. At the beginning of the story, the couple is struggling to make ends meet, but as Harold’s business begins to thrive, they become increasingly consumed by their newfound wealth. Fitzgerald uses their story to comment on the dangers of materialism and the pursuit of money at the expense of personal relationships and happiness. As the couple’s obsession with money grows, their relationship begins to deteriorate, ultimately leading to a tragic ending. Through “The Lees of Happiness,” Fitzgerald reminds us that true happiness cannot be bought with money and that the pursuit of material wealth can often lead to a life devoid of joy and meaning.
The Portrayal of Love and Relationships in “The Lees of Happiness”
In “The Lees of Happiness,” F. Scott Fitzgerald portrays love and relationships in a complex and nuanced way. The story follows the marriage of two characters, Otis and Laurie Lee, as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship. At first, their love seems idyllic and perfect, but as the story progresses, cracks begin to appear in their marriage. Fitzgerald shows how love can be both joyful and painful, and how relationships can be both fulfilling and challenging. Ultimately, “The Lees of Happiness” is a powerful exploration of the complexities of love and the human heart.
The Exploration of the American Dream in “The Lees of Happiness”
In “The Lees of Happiness,” F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the concept of the American Dream through the lives of two characters, Mr. and Mrs. Lee. The Lees are a young couple who move to the West in search of a better life and the fulfillment of their dreams. However, as they begin to achieve their goals, they realize that the American Dream is not all it’s cracked up to be.
Through the Lees’ experiences, Fitzgerald highlights the disillusionment and emptiness that can come with the pursuit of material success. The Lees’ marriage begins to suffer as they become more focused on their individual goals, and they find themselves feeling unfulfilled despite their achievements.
Fitzgerald’s exploration of the American Dream in “The Lees of Happiness” is a commentary on the shallow nature of society’s values and the dangers of placing too much importance on material success. The Lees’ journey serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers that true happiness cannot be found in material possessions or societal status.
The Lessons Learned from “The Lees of Happiness”
“The Lees of Happiness” is a story that teaches us valuable lessons about the nature of happiness and the importance of living in the present. The main characters, Otis and Laurie Lee, are a young couple who are deeply in love and have big dreams for their future. However, their pursuit of happiness is constantly hindered by their own insecurities and fears, as well as external factors such as financial difficulties and societal expectations.
One of the key lessons we can learn from this story is that happiness is not something that can be achieved by simply accumulating wealth or material possessions. Otis and Laurie initially believe that their happiness will be complete once they have enough money to live comfortably and pursue their passions. However, they soon realize that money alone cannot bring them true happiness, and that they need to focus on the things that truly matter in life, such as their love for each other and their shared experiences.
Another important lesson from “The Lees of Happiness” is the idea that we should not let our fears and insecurities hold us back from pursuing our dreams. Otis and Laurie are both plagued by doubts and anxieties about their abilities and their future prospects, which often leads them to make poor decisions and miss out on opportunities. However, they eventually learn to overcome these fears and take risks in order to achieve their goals.
Overall, “The Lees of Happiness” is a powerful reminder that happiness is not a destination, but rather a journey that requires us to be present in the moment and to appreciate the simple joys of life. By learning from the experiences of Otis and Laurie, we can all strive to live more fulfilling and joyful lives.