Tender is the Night

In Tender is the Night, the lives of wealthy expatriates in the French Riviera unfold, revealing love, ambition, and the fragility of dreams amidst glamour and despair.

Set against the glamorous backdrop of the French Riviera during the tumultuous period between the First World War and the Wall Street Crash, Tender is the Night explores the lives of the wealthy American expatriates who flock to this idyllic locale. Central to the narrative are Dick Diver and his wife Nicole, a couple who epitomize the allure and decadence of their surroundings. Their villa serves as a magnet for the elite, where they host lavish parties and attract the attention of many, including the young film star Rosemary Hoyt. Rosemary's fascination with the Divers draws her into a world of charm and beauty, but also reveals the underlying darkness that binds them together.

As Rosemary becomes entwined in the lives of Dick and Nicole, she begins to uncover the hidden complexities and emotional turmoil that lie beneath their glamorous facade. The novel poignantly portrays the fragility of relationships, as Dick's growing attraction to Rosemary threatens to unravel his already strained marriage. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, love, and the inevitable decay of dreams, reflecting Fitzgerald's own experiences and observations of the era's materialism and disillusionment.

In Tender is the Night, Fitzgerald crafts a rich, lyrical tale that captures the essence of a bygone era while exploring the human condition in all its beauty and tragedy. This exquisite novel remains a testament to the author's literary genius, marking the profound impact of his work as we commemorate the 70th anniversary of his passing.