The Lees of Happiness

The Lees of Happiness is a poignant short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, first published in The Saturday Evening Post in 1920 and later included in his collection Tales of the Jazz Age (1922). The narrative follows Roxanne and Jeffrey, a newlywed couple whose life together is marked by love, tragedy, and resilience. Roxanne, a devoted and compassionate woman, supports her husband Jeffrey through his struggles with health and mental decline. Their relationship is a testament to the power of unconditional love and the enduring strength of human connection.

Set against the backdrop of the Jazz Age, a time of rapid social change and cultural upheaval, the story explores themes of the passage of time, the impact of illness on relationships, and the resilience of the spirit. Fitzgerald’s evocative prose and keen psychological insight create a haunting and melancholic atmosphere, reflecting the bittersweet nature of their journey. Roxanne’s unwavering support and Jeffrey’s struggle for stability form the emotional core of the story, making it a deeply moving and thought-provoking read. The story showcases Fitzgerald’s mastery of capturing the complexities of human emotion and the profound impact of love in the face of adversity.