“The Circus” by Ernest Hemingway as featured in Ringling Bros. Circus Magazine (1953)

Description

Ernest Hemingway’s essay “The Circus” offers a vivid reflection on his lifelong fascination with the circus. “The circus is the only ageless delight that you can buy for money. Everything else is supposed to be bad for you. But the circus is good for you. It is the only spectacle I know that, while you watch it, gives the quality of a truly happy dream.” This sentiment underscores Hemingway’s appreciation for the timeless and universal joy that the circus brings to audiences. While “The Circus” is not widely analyzed in literary criticism, it provides insight into Hemingway’s personal interests and his ability to find profound meaning in popular entertainment. The essay reflects his admiration for the circus as a unique form of spectacle that transcends age and time, offering a pure and wholesome experience.

For Hemingway enthusiasts and completists, this piece serves as a valuable addition to understanding the breadth of his work and interests. It highlights how his literary prowess extended beyond novels and short stories, capturing the essence of varied human experiences, including the enchanting world of the circus.

The rest of the program is classic mid-century circus ephemera: sideshow blurbs, photos, comics, and features for the whole family. But the Hemingway piece? That’s the rare element—and the reason this belongs in a completist’s collection. Which begs the question — where have all the completists gone?