The Swimmer

The Swimmer is a short story by American author John Cheever, published in 1964 in the short story collection The Brigadier and the Golf Widow. Originally meant to be part of a novel and pared down from over 150 pages of notes, it is probably Cheever's most famous story and it is frequently anthologized. At one point Cheever wanted to parallel the tale of Narcissus, a character in Greek mythology who died while staring at his own reflection in a pool of water, which Cheever dismissed as too restrictive. As published, the story is highly praised for its blend of realism and surrealism, the thematic exploration of suburban America, especially the relationship between wealth and happiness, as well as his use of myth and symbolism.

Media adaptations

The Swimmer was turned into a movie by director Frank Perry in 1968. The screenplay was written by his wife Eleanor Perry. Perry left the production due to creative differences, leaving a scene unfinished, the one Neddy meets his former mistress Shirley Adams, which was directed by Sydney Pollack. The film stars Burt Lancaster as Neddy Merrill.

Related Topics:
Director - Frank Perry - 1968 - Eleanor Perry - Sydney Pollack - Burt Lancaster

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