Fitzgerald's short stories don't always bask in the spotlight as his novels do, yet comparing their narrative elements—plot, character development, and stylistic flair—against his longer works can be revealing. Consider, for example, the loosely woven tale of "Mayday" and how it stands against the unfolding drama of The Beautiful and Damned. Given that many literary voices argue that the short story demands a high level of succinctness, it's worth exploring whether Fitzgerald successfully distills his tales into the potent essence that short fiction requires.

Turning to the backdrop of these stories, a key component throughout, one might ponder if the European milieu of "Babylon Revisited" is as vividly painted as the American landscapes found in his other narratives. Fitzgerald's style, always noteworthy, shines most brightly in the dialogues that animate his stories, unraveling the profound themes within.

Discussion Questions

1. In which of these four stories does the setting take center stage, playing the most pivotal role?

2. Beyond the geographical discord, what underlies the central conflict in "The Ice Palace"?

3. Does "Mayday" capture the essence of a New York spring in 1919? Which narrative techniques effectively contribute to this portrayal?

4. Are there genuine parallels between Charles Wales and Gordon Sterrett, considering the distinct circumstances surrounding these troubled characters?

5. Is the fragmented structure of "Mayday" perplexing and off-putting? Could there have been a more coherent way to cultivate the storyline?

6. Do you completely empathize with Charlie Wales, or do you find Marion's skepticism towards him somewhat justified?

7. Does the lyrical quality of the prose in "Absolution" detract from the story's thematic core, or is the style too "poetic" for its own good?

8. Which of these four stories delivers the most profound thematic punch? What features of the selected tale drive you to this conclusion?