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Farther and Wilder: The Lost Weekends and Literary Dreams of Charles Jackson

Name: Farther and Wilder: The Lost Weekends and Literary Dreams of Charles Jackson
Price: 27.96 USD
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4.8 of 5 Stars: Biographies & Memoirs - Farther and Wilder: The Lost Weekends and Literary Dreams of Charles Jackson

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Book Synopsis: From the prizewinning biographer of Richard Yates and John Cheever, here is the fascinating biography of Charles Jackson, the author of The Lost Weekend—a writer whose life and work encapsulated what it meant to be an addict and a closeted gay man in mid-century America, and what one had to do with the other. Charles Jackson’s novel The Lost Weekend—the story of five disastrous days in the life of alcoholic Don Birnam—was published in 1944 to triumphant success. Within five years it had sold nearly half a million copies in various editions, and was added to the prestigious Modern Library. The actor Ray Milland, who would win an Oscar for his portrayal of Birnam, was coached in the ways of drunkenness by the novel’s author—a balding, impeccably groomed middle-aged man who had been sober since 1936 and had no intention of going down in history as the author of a thinly veiled autobiography about a crypto-homosexual drunk. But The Lost Weekend was all but entirely based on Jackson’s own experiences, and Jackson’s valiant struggles fill these pages. He and his handsome gay brother, Fred (“Boom”), grew up in the scandal-plagued village of Newark, New York, and later lived in Europe as TB patients, consorting with aristocratic café society. Jackson went on to work in radio and Hollywood, was published widely, lived in the Hotel Chelsea in New York City, and knew everyone from Judy Garland and Billy Wilder to Thomas Mann and Mary McCarthy. A doting family man with two daughters, Jackson was often industrious and sober; he even became a celebrated spokesman for Alcoholics Anonymous. Yet he ultimately found it nearly impossible to write without the stimulus of pills or alcohol and felt his devotion to his work was worth the price. Rich with incident and character, Farther & Wilder is the moving story of an artist whose commitment to bringing forbidden subjects into the popular discourse was far ahead of his time.

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Discover the captivating story of Charles Jackson, the mastermind behind the classic novel The Lost Weekends, with Farther and Wilder. As a prizewinning biographer, our author delves deep into Jackson's life as an addict and a closeted gay man in mid-century America. Explore the intricate relationship between his personal struggles and groundbreaking literary achievements, and uncover how one man defied societal norms to create a timeless masterpiece.

With The Lost Weekend, Jackson skyrocketed to success, selling half a million copies within five years of its publication. This gripping tale of alcoholic Don Birnam struck a chord with readers across the nation, earning its place in the prestigious Modern Library. Dive into the pages of Farther and Wilder to discover the shocking truth behind the novel's inception and the author's personal battles that inspired such a powerful narrative.

Immerse yourself in the glamorous world of Charles Jackson as our biographer unveils the hidden chapters of his life. From a scandal-plagued village to the sophisticated cafés of Europe, Jackson's journey as a TB patient offers a unique perspective on both high society and personal struggles. Alongside him, his charismatic gay brother, Fred ("Boom"), adds another layer of intrigue and complexity to this enthralling biography.

Experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and the literary scene as Jackson rubs shoulders with icons of the era. From Judy Garland to Billy Wilder, Thomas Mann to Mary McCarthy, Jackson's relationships with the biggest names of the time are nothing short of extraordinary. Through his eyes, you'll witness the rise and fall of an era, all while uncovering the truth behind Jackson's artistic drive and the sacrifices he made for his work.

In Farther and Wilder, our biographer paints a vivid portrait of a man torn between addiction and his craft. Jackson's devotion to Alcoholics Anonymous marked him as a symbol of hope and resilience. However, his struggle with pills and alcohol became intricately linked to his creative process, leading to both triumphs and tribulations. Prepare to be moved by the poignant story of an artist whose pursuit of forbidden subjects pushed the boundaries of his time.

Don't miss out on this captivating biography that sheds light on the life and work of Charles Jackson. Order your copy of Farther and Wilder today and embark on a journey of discovery.

Order Farther and Wilder now and uncover the fascinating story behind one of the greatest literary triumphs of the 20th century.

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