The Life and Influence of Lester Hemingway

Lester Hemingway, the lesser-known brother of renowned writer Ernest Hemingway, led a life heavily influenced by his famous sibling. Growing up in the shadow of Ernest, Lester idolized his brother and often referred to himself as 'Hemingway's little brother.' Despite having aspirations to become a writer himself, Lester's work was often compared to Ernest's and deemed derivative. However, after Ernest's death, Lester published a biography titled 'My Brother, Ernest Hemingway,' which provided an adoring portrait of his brother and received critical acclaim. Lester's life took an eccentric turn when he attempted to start his own country, New Atlantis, by floating a bamboo raft fortified with steel in international waters. Although short-lived, this endeavor garnered attention and even resulted in the creation of a currency, stamps, and a flag. Later in life, Lester faced health issues, including diabetes and a heart condition, which led to a decline in his mental state. In 1982, at the age of 67, he tragically took his own life.