That Kind of Party by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Author: Francis Scott Fitzgerald
Published: The Princeton University Library Chronicle (Summer 1951)
Genre: Short Story
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“That Kind of Party” is a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald published posthumously in The Princeton University Library Chronicle in the summer of 1951.
1. That Kind of Party Synopsis
“That Kind of Party” revolves around Terrence Tipton’s longing for a romantic encounter with Dolly Bartlett, particularly through a kissing game, and his various attempts to make it happen at a party. It delves into the humorous and chaotic events that unfold during the party, including an unexpected twist involving Carpenter Moore’s miraculous recovery from paralysis. The story explores themes of infatuation, youthful curiosity, and the unpredictability of life’s events.
2. That Kind of Party Summary
Chapter 1
Terrence Tipton recalls a memorable party where he met Dolly Bartlett and played a kissing game. Infatuated, he seeks to replicate the experience at Joe Schoonover’s party, even resorting to a fake telegram. Despite obstacles, the desire for another kiss from Dolly consumes him.
Chapter 2
Terrence concocts a fake telegram to avoid going home due to a school incident. At Joe Schoonover’s party, Terrence is infatuated with Dolly Bartlett but becomes anxious. His attempt to initiate a kissing game fails, and they contemplate asking one of the girls to start it. Carpenter Moore, Albert Moore’s brother, arrives and confronts Terrence about the earlier fight. Carpenter admonishes them, but Mrs. Schoonover’s arrival distracts everyone.
Chapter 3
During a party, Carpenter Moore takes charge and proposes an unorthodox version of a kissing game. Terrence hides in a closet to avoid participating, but Dolly Bartlett finds him. They share a moment, but Martha Robbie discovers them and informs the mothers of the party’s chaos. While Carpenter’s wheelchair is tipped over during a struggle, he miraculously stands up for the first time in five years, stunning everyone.
Chapter 4
Terrence leaves the Schoonovers’ house, fearing blame for Carpenter’s miraculous recovery. He returns home to find a letter from his aunt mentioning Charlotte’s illness. However, the telegram meant for his aunt had been delivered to his house by mistake. Dolly Bartlett calls, inviting him to supper at her house. Terrence agrees and looks forward to a better turn of events after a day of misadventures.
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