THE LOST GENERATION AND ITS INFLUENCE ON LITERATURE AND CULTURE IN THE WAKE OF WORLD WAR I

The Lost Generation refers to a cohort of American writers who emerged in the aftermath of World War I, characterized by their disillusionment with traditional values and societal norms. This article examines the historical context surrounding the Lost Generation, highlighting how the war's brutality led to a profound sense of alienation and existential questioning among these writers. Key figures such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and T.S. Eliot are discussed for their contributions to modernist literature, showcasing recurring themes of disillusionment, alienation, and the critique of the American Dream. The influence of the Lost Generation extends beyond literature into visual arts and music, reflecting broader cultural movements of the 1920s and 1930s. Ultimately, the legacy of the Lost Generation continues to resonate in contemporary literature and culture, offering insights into the human condition that remain relevant today.