I want to adapt “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place”

If I was ever given the opportunity to make an adaption of one’s written work, it would have to be Ernest Hemingway’s short story “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place.” 

 

I first read this story my Junior year at Columbia. I remember this moment so vividly because, when I read it, I felt I could relate to the young waiter. 

 

Let me take a step back for a moment and give you a quick synopsis of the piece. “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place” is a story of three men. One old, one middle-aged, and one young. The middle-aged and young men are waiters at a café, while the old man is merely a patron who sits, every night, in this clean, well-lighted place, and drinks. 

 

At first, the young waiter talks about how the old man is in despair. About how he has no respect for others, and the fact that he, himself, wishes the old man would just go home. The older waiter defends the old man and understands his need for a place to drink. Who wants to drink at home alone, right?

 

Well, like I said earlier, when I was college I could relate to the young waiter. I was always in a hurry and looking forward to getting on with my life. But as I get older, I start to see myself as the the middle-aged waiter. Understanding the importance of a place like this café. A place to sit, in silence, yet, in public, and drink. 

 

Yeah, I would love to make an adaptation of “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place.” Then again, maybe one day I’ll just be the old man. Who knows. Maybe. 

 

Anyway, if you’ve never read this wonderful short story by Ernest Hemingway, I really think you should. I feel it’s his best work, in regards to short stories, of course. And if you don’t feel like buying the book, you can always read it here. Then again, you really should buy the book. I do prefer the feel of bound paper in my hands so much more. 

 

So, what book would you turn into a movie if you had the chance? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you feel deserves to make its way to the big screen.