Ernest Hemingway was born on July 21, 1899, in Oak Park, Illinois. His father was a doctor, and his mother was musically trained. He inherited his passion for vigorous activities, such as fishing, shooting, bullfighting, and hunting, from his father. From his mother, he acquired a quick, observant eye and a sensitive mind. Even as a young man, Hemingway believed in living life dangerously. He is supposed to have lied about his age in order to join …showed first 75 words of 509 total…

…showed last 75 words of 509 total…Nobel Prize. As a writer, he became known for his predominant them of "grace under pressure." This theme was clearly developed in the old man who fought the giant fish and killed it against all odds; it is also seen in the bullfighters, who risk their lives each time they enter the ring. It also characterized Hemingway's own life until the point that he felt he was no longer able to demonstrate grace under pressure.