American Lost Generation Writers: Post-WWI Literary Movement

The American Lost Generation

The term "Lost Generation" refers to American writers who reflected the climate of pessimism and confusion that followed the First World War. Many became expatriates in Europe, frustrated with the cultural landscape of their home country. They described the futility and cruelty of the war, the Roaring Twenties, the Jazz Age, the Depression, and American society in general.

The moral crisis experienced by these authors was intrinsically linked to a literary crisis, which compelled them to seek new forms of expression. This generation represents one of the most important schools or literary movements in contemporary American literature. The authors comprising the Lost Generation shared a common interest and focus on social issues, harshly reflecting on the American society of their time.

Key Characteristics of the Lost Generation

• Negativity: Characterized by pessimism and uncertainty.
• Pacifism: A strong reaction against the cruel and useless nature of war.
• Nostalgia/Reflection: A look back at the excesses of the Roaring Twenties.
• Extremism: Manifestations of nationalism, radicalism, and racism in society.
• Social Reflection: Depiction of hard social issues of the day, such as hunger, despair, and sadness.

Historical and Cultural Context

The historical and cultural context for this generation of American writers centers on the pervasive climate of pessimism and confusion following the First World War. These individuals, often from the American middle class, saw art as a means to break through class conformist liberalism and radicalism.

Their models were not past American writers; instead, they looked toward disillusioned European intellectuals. They found a Europe that was itself reeling, and intellectuals who were also demoralized. This environment led to a passionate surrender to political action and the pursuit of intense sensation.

Repetitive Characteristics Summary

The defining traits of the Lost Generation include:

Negativity: Pessimism and uncertainty.

Pacifism: Condemnation of the cruel and useless war.

Looking Back: Focus on the Roaring Twenties.

Extremism: Engagement with nationalism, radicalism, and racism.

Reflection of Society: Portrayal of harsh social issues like hunger, despair, and sadness.

The context remains the post-WWI climate of confusion. These middle-class individuals sought artistic avenues to transcend societal conformity, finding inspiration among demoralized European intellectuals, which fueled their passion for political engagement and sensory experience.