Death in the Afternoon

The classic investigation of bullfightings history and pomp as well of the deeper themes of fear valour sport and tragedy that it evokes by Ernest Hemingway. Death in the Afternoon is still regarded as one of the best books on bullfighting ever written reflecting Hemingways belief that bullfighting was more than just a sport. He outlines the technical components of this dangerous rite as well as the emotional and spiritual intensity and pure classic beauty that a man an animal and a strip of crimson serge draped on a stick can achieve. Bullfighting becomes an art a finely planned ballet with participants ranging from ungainly novices to masters of remarkable grace and cunning as seen through his eyes. Death in the Afternoon is a fascinating look into the history and grandeur of bullfighting as well as a deeper reflection on the nature of cowardice and valor sport and tragedy and is enlivened throughout by Hemingways sharp observations on life and literature.