From Hemingway to The Beatles: Key West’s Influence on Legendary Artists and Authors

Key West has long been a haven for creative minds of all kinds. The island’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty have served as a wellspring of inspiration for numerous works of art and literature. Here are a few examples of creators who found themselves captivated by the Key West lifestyle:

Undoubtedly one of Key West’s most renowned residents, Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961) resided on the island from 1928 to 1939. During this time, he wrote seventy percent of his life’s work, including iconic pieces such as For Whom the Bell Tolls, A Farewell to Arms, Death in the Afternoon, and The Green Hills of Africa. Today, Hemingway’s former residence stands as a museum and remains a popular tourist attraction.

Check out our video on Hemingway’s Homes (Key WEst and Cuba) here.

Another celebrated writer who called Key West home was Tennessee Williams (1911-1983). He spent over 30 years on the island, drawing inspiration from his experiences there for notable plays such as A Streetcar Named Desire and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit welcomes visitors and offers insight into his life and work.

Shel Silverstein (1930-1999), beloved for his children’s literature, poetry, and songs, also resided in Key West for an extended period. His time on the island influenced the creation of his renowned works, including The Giving Tree, Where the Sidewalk Ends, and The Missing Piece. Although his house and the Banyan tree inspiring The Giving Tree were destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2017, his legacy endures through his cherished books and songs, like The Great Conch Train Robbery.

Novelist and short story writer Thomas McGuane (born 1939) spent several years in Key West during the 1970s. His time on the island led to the creation of acclaimed works such as 92 in the Shade and Panama. McGuane’s writing often delves into themes of masculinity and violence, characterized by vivid imagery and sharp dialogue.

During the 1970s, Jimmy Buffett (born 1946), known for his music and writing, embraced the laid-back lifestyle and Caribbean spirit in Key West. The island served as a significant muse for his music and writing, with Key West references appearing in many of his songs. The singer also highlights the island in his album cover art.

Buffett, McGuane, and Capote were all fans of the Chart Room Cocktail Lounge in the Pier House. Discover more about the stories of the Chart Room here.

Renowned children’s author Judy Blume (born 1938) has made Key West her home for numerous years. She credits the island’s relaxed atmosphere as a source of inspiration for her writing. Blume’s books tackle sensitive topics such as puberty and sexuality with honesty and humor. Some of her books include popular titles like Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret, and Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, Blubber, and more.

Wallace Stevens (1879-1955), an American modernist poet, played a pivotal role in the new Romanticism movement. He was a frequent visitor to Casa Marina, where he famously engaged in bar fights with renowned authors Ernest Hemingway and Robert Frost. His time spent on the island greatly influenced his works, including notable poems like “Ethereal Florida” and “The Idea of Order at Key West.”

Robert Frost (1874-1963) was a renowned poet who sought solace in Key West, starting in 1945. For 16 consecutive winters, Frost resided in the cottage behind a house that now bears his name. It was here that he penned one of his most popular poems, “The Gift Outright.”

Thornton Wilder (1897-1975), noted for writing The Matchmaker, also found inspiration while residing in the Robert Frost cottage in Key West. Wilder was captivated by the island’s unique ambiance, which influenced his work.

Even the legendary British band, The Beatles, found their way to Key West. Their song “Here Today” alludes to a memorable night spent on the island, where they gathered, drank, and shared their thoughts on the loss of their mothers. The lyrics capture the essence of that evening:

“What about the night we cried?
Because there wasn’t any reason
Left to keep it all inside
Never understood a word
But you were always there with a smile”

Here Today – The Beatles

Additionally, their song “Blackbird” was inspired by their time in Key West while protesting against racial segregation in a stadium in Jacksonville.

Carson McCullers, an American novelist born in 1917, published her acclaimed first novel, The Heart is a Lonely Hunter, in 1940. She formed a friendship with Tennessee Williams and spent the spring of 1955 with him in Key West. McCullers’ untimely passing occurred in 1967 at the young age of 50 in Nyack, New York. 

Truman Capote sought refuge in Key West during winters, staying at the renowned Pier House resort built by Key West native and developer David Wolkowsky. It was in Key West that Capote wrote Answered Prayers, showcasing the island’s influence on his writing. 

These creators, among many others, have found inspiration and solace in the enchanting island life of Key West, contributing their unique perspectives and talents to the artistic legacy of this extraordinary destination. The island’s enchanting atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking surroundings continue to kindle the creative spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape.