The term "Lost Generation" was coined by American writer Gertrude Stein and popularized by Ernest Hemingway in his 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." It refers to a group of writers, artists, and intellectuals who came of age during the wars and felt disillusioned and disoriented by the devastation they witnessed.
Members of the Lost Generation shared a sense of disillusionment and skepticism about traditional values, conventional morality, and the glorification of war. They often explored themes of alienation, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that seemed chaotic and meaningless. Their writings reflected their experiences and observations during the wars and the aftermath.
Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, John Dos Passos, and Erich Maria Remarque are among the prominent writers associated with the Lost Generation. Their works, such as "The Sun Also Rises," "The Great Gatsby," "Three Soldiers," and "All Quiet on the Western Front," captured the essence of the era and left a lasting impact on literature.
The Lost Generation's literary contributions provided a critical perspective on the impact of war and the societal shifts that occurred during the early 20th century. Their writings continue to be studied, appreciated, and adapted in various forms, serving as a reminder of the devastating effects of war and the resilience of the human spirit.