Strange Tale
As you all know, this is now a major motion picture. I haven’t seen it yet but wanted to read the original story first. It is a very short story, all of 5 pages of fairly large print.
Fitzgerald said, “I shall tell you what occurred, and let you judge for yourself.” The day Benjamin was born his father, Roger was so excited and proud. It was his first child after all! He rushed to the hospital. First he ran into the doctor and asked if the child was a boy or girl. The doctor was very irritable an left in a huff. Roger went up stairs and asked the nurse the sex of the baby. The poor nurse was tongue-tied, she didn’t know what to say.
Benjamin was a son, but not at all what Roger or anyone expected. He was born an old man. A crotchety one at that.
This is quite a diversion from Fitzgerald’s Great Gatsby. It’s quite peculiar but I think it is partially a story about acceptance and tolerance.
I have heard that the movie is much different from the story. Actually it would have to be, to go from a five page story to an almost three hour movie. I look forward to seeing the movie and as, F. Scott Fitzgerald suggested, judge for myself.
Though I enjoyed the story, I would have liked it more developed. I like something I can really sink my eyes into.
Though I enjoyed the story, I would have liked it more developed. I like something I can really sink my eyes into.
3.5/5
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I’m not a big fan of short stories for the exact reason you mentioned – I like more development in my stories.
Very nicely reviewed. I’ll be sure to read the story first, too, before seeing the movie.
Bermudaonion, I didn’t use to like them either until I read a wonderful collection of them.
Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri. Read that book and come back and tell me you still don’t like short stories. I challenge you!
It is because of this author that I don’t write off short stories anymore. Since, I have read so wonderful, well developed stories.
IMO short stories are a special art for that some writers have. Then there are some authors that should stick to novels.
Thanks Linda!
I haven’t read the story, but I really enjoyed the film! It totally swept me up and away and has left quite an impression on me, as well as my family. Hope you enjoy!
I didn’t realize this was a Fitzgerald title. Interesting review!
I am look forward to the film writemeg!
Linda, I hadn’t realized it either.
I knew it was a short story but not that it was so short! LOL.
Thanks for providing the link, I’ve bookmarked it for later. I’m hosting Short Story Monday tomorrow, looking for participants again. Thanks for encouraging me to do so– I hope to see you there!
Tanabata, I was suprised too!
Yippee John that’s great news! I will post about it on A Novel Challenge.
I’m off to read the story now. Thanks for the review.
My Monday Short Story review is here:
http://lyndasbookblog.blogspot.com/2009/01/what-bells-saw-and-said-by-lousia-may.html
Holistic Knitter, I’ll be interest to read your thought on Benjamin Button.
As for the link to your short story review, please visit John aat The Book Mine Set and post your review in his short story Mondays. He is the one hosting the weekly event. He has Mr Linky set up for you to post your reviews.
Wonderful review Teddy and I can’t wait to see what you think of the movie. I have not read this story and I do not go to the movies, but from what I have seen in terms of reviews, the story is definitely going on my TBR. Thanks!
Thanks J.C. I’m not sure when I’ll get around to seeing the movie. I just saw Revolutionary Road yesturday and it was very good but quite depressing.
Cate Blanchett with a southern accent FTW; but Benjamin Button kept dragging on, always pausing dramatically on Brad Pitt’s face, a lot like Meet Joe Black, FTL
Coffee, I have heard from friends that the film was over rated. I still would like to see it one of these days.
I’ve only read The Great Gatsby, for fun. I did watch the movie Curious Case of Benjamin Button, but I think I had trouble understanding what is its message.
What did you think of the movie? I have neither read the book nor seen the movie. I never never F. Scott wrote this.
I actually preferred the movie which is a rarity for me. The written story was really just used as a stepping stone for the movie.
I didn’t know that F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote this story that inspired the movie! I can’t believe I haven’t seen this movie! Need to see it soon.