Ernest Hemingway, the famous American writer, lived in Key West, Florida, in the 1930s, where he penned many of his renowned novels. Since 1981, Key West has celebrated Hemingway with an annual event called Hemingway Days. This year, the event concluded on July 21, marking the 125th anniversary of Hemingway’s birth. His influence on American literature is significant, and his connection to Key West endures. Stephen Hemingway Adams, his great-grandson, noted that working with Patrick Hemingway, Ernest’s son, on the book “Dear Papa”—which compiles their letters—deepened his understanding of Hemingway’s legacy.

Hemingway’s adventurous life, including big-game fishing and hunting, greatly shaped his writing. After his wife’s uncle bought them a house, Key West, a charming fishing village, became his home. Hemingway enjoyed the island life and wrote “A Farewell to Arms” there. His passion for fishing led to innovations in the sport with his boat, the Pilar. During the Great Depression, he also contributed to the community. The Hemingway Home & Museum, a key landmark, preserves his legacy and houses around 60 polydactyl cats, descendants of his pet. What began as a promotional event for Sloppy Joe’s Bar, Hemingway Days has grown into a major festival with a look-alike contest and scholarships for Florida Keys students. David Douglas, president of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, highlighted the camaraderie among participants and the festival’s role in keeping Hemingway’s legacy alive.