Hemingway Season 1 Episode 1 A Writer
- TV-MA
- April 5, 2021
- 116 min
-
8.2 (154)
Hemingway season 1 episode 1, titled "A Writer," serves as the introduction to the iconic writer's life and career. The episode begins with a montage of archival footage and photographs of Ernest Hemingway, showcasing his many adventures, struggles, and achievements. The narrator sets the stage by stating that while Hemingway is often remembered for his writing, his life was just as interesting as his stories.
The episode then dives into Hemingway's early life, starting with his childhood in Oak Park, Illinois. Through interviews with historians and scholars, as well as dramatized scenes, viewers learn about Hemingway's parents, his education, and his budding interest in writing. In particular, the episode speaks to Hemingway's relationship with his mother, Grace, who was a talented musician and expected her son to follow in her footsteps. Hemingway, however, was more interested in hunting and fishing, and would often withdraw from his family to pursue these activities.
As Hemingway grows older, viewers see him start to shape his own identity as a writer. He begins by working as a reporter for the Kansas City Star, where he hones his unique style and develops his belief in "the iceberg theory" of writing. From there, he moves to Europe and joins a group of expatriate writers, including Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Through interviews with scholars and dramatized scenes, viewers see Hemingway's rise to fame and his struggles with relationships and alcoholism.
Along the way, the episode also touches on some of Hemingway's most notable works. The narrator describes the inspiration behind some of his early short stories and novels, such as "The Sun Also Rises" and "A Farewell to Arms," as well as his later works like "For Whom the Bell Tolls." Scholars also discuss the impact Hemingway had on literature as a whole, from his minimalist style to his portrayal of war.
Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of Hemingway's personality and demeanor. He is described as fiercely independent and stubborn, with an unwavering belief in his own abilities. However, he is also shown to be deeply flawed, with a tendency towards arrogance, infidelity, and violence.
Overall, Hemingway season 1 episode 1 delivers a comprehensive look at the writer's life and career, serving as a compelling introduction for those who may not be familiar with his work. The drama and intrigue of Hemingway's life are highlighted, as are his successes and struggles as a writer. Through interviews with experts and dramatized scenes, viewers get a sense of the man behind the words, and are left wanting to learn more about one of the most iconic writers of the 20th century.