The Guest in Room Nineteen by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Author: Francis Scott Fitzgerald 

Published: Esquire (October 1937)

Genre: Short Stories

“The Guest in Room Nineteen” is a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald published in Esquire in October 1937.

1. The Guest in Room Nineteen Synopsis

“The Guest in Room Nineteen” revolves around Mr. Cass, an elderly man who is staying at a hotel. He becomes intrigued by a mysterious guest who always arrives late at night and stays in room nineteen. Mr. Cass, who has suffered a stroke, grows increasingly curious about this enigmatic guest and questions the hotel’s night watchman about him. Mr. Cass’s interactions with the watchman and the mysterious guest lead to unexpected and surreal events.

2. The Guest in Room Nineteen Summary

Mr. Cass, a stroke survivor, encounters a mysterious guest at his hotel. The night watchman shares unsettling stories about this guest, who enters late at night and stays in room nineteen. Mr. Cass grows suspicious, but when he collapses trying to lift a log with the watchman, he discovers newfound strength. Later, he confronts the mysterious guest, insisting he helps with the log. The guest complies, but as they carry it, Mr. Cass experiences an otherworldly sensation. He leaves the hotel, and it’s implied he transcends life. The hotel manager regrets his departure, and the watchman’s brother reflects on the eerie events.

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