Happy spring break, writers! The deadline for the spring edition may be just around the corner, but make sure to take time to relax— crack open a book and a beverage, you’ve earned it.
Here are some well-read cocktails to pair with some classics over your break:
Ernest Hemingway’s A Garden of Eden and a mojito
Hemingway is famously known for his love of drink but the mojito was said to be his favorite. It’s a refreshing mixture of mint, lime, and rum and is good for any breezy spring day—not to mention the page turner about love, lust, and gender role reversal!
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s This Side of Paradise and the Gin Rickey
This drink was not only Fitzgerald’s go to, but the low sugar beverage with a twinge of lime pairs nicely with the dryness found in a tale of love and war.
Raymond Chandler’s The Long Goodbye and Marlowe’s gimlet
Who doesn’t like feeling like a detective now and again? Take a big glass and do it Phillip Marlowe style: half gin, half lime. Then try to keep track of all the double-crossing and plot twists. Good luck.
Carson McCullers’s the Heart is a Lonely Hunter and her Sonnie Boy
Not big on the booze? Try a more laid back beverage of hot tea and sherry, a drink McCullers often enjoyed throughout the day. The soothing drink will get you through the deep and sometimes sentimental journey of strange friendships.
James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room and a big ol’ glass of wine
Whether it’s red, white, French— or Italian, keep the bottle handy while you endeavor to understand self, life, love, and all that’s in-between.
To get suggested recipes for the pairings described take a look at the Kitchn’s 10 Famous Fiction Writers and Their Cocktails
To read more about well known writers and their drinks of choice, check out Hemingway and Bailey’s Bartending Guide
Read responsibly!