F. Scott Fitzgerald, born Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald on September 24, 1896, in St. Paul, Minnesota, was an American novelist and short story writer. Fitzgerald is widely regarded as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century and a central figure of the "Lost Generation" literary movement.

Fitzgerald gained international recognition with his debut novel, "This Side of Paradise," published in 1920. This novel explored the lives and aspirations of young people in post-World War I America, and its success established Fitzgerald as a prominent voice of his generation. The novel depicted themes of love, wealth, and disillusionment, which became recurring motifs in his subsequent works.

However, it was Fitzgerald's subsequent novel, "The Great Gatsby" (published in 1925), that solidified his status as a literary icon. Set in the Roaring Twenties, the novel vividly portrays the excesses and societal decadence of the era. It remains one of the most celebrated works of American literature, exploring the American Dream, the pursuit of love, and the emptiness behind materialism.

Fitzgerald's writing style is characterized by his elegant prose, clever turn of phrases, and sharp insights into the human condition. He often delved into themes of wealth, class struggles, and the rejection of traditional values.