Top Literary Greats of the Hamptons

A variety of great American literary masterpieces have been created in the idyllic surroundings of the Hamptons by writers of the highest caliber. There were numerous writers who made significant contributions to the literary world during their time in the Hamptons, including Truman Capote's legendary soirées, John Steinbeck's political activism, and Edward Albee's biting wit. Discover the secrets of their lives, their iconic works, and the impact these literary legends have had on this elegant East Coast haven.

1. Truman Capote - Capote lived in a beachfront house in Sagaponack during the 1970s. He wrote his famous novel "Answered Prayers" during his time in the Hamptons. Capote was openly gay and lived a lavish lifestyle, hosting extravagant parties and socializing with the wealthy elite of the area.
2. John Steinbeck - Steinbeck lived in Sag Harbor during the 1950s and 60s. He wrote several books during his time in the Hamptons, including "Travels with Charley" and "The Winter of Our Discontent". Steinbeck was married and had two sons. He was known for his social and political activism and was an advocate for workers' rights.
3. Kurt Vonnegut - Vonnegut lived in Sagaponack from 1972 until his death in 2007. He wrote several books during his time in the Hamptons, including "Slapstick" and "Galapagos". Vonnegut was married and had three children. He was known for his humor and satirical writing style.
4. Betty Friedan - Friedan lived in Sag Harbor from 1970 until her death in 2006. She wrote several books during her time in the Hamptons, including "The Feminine Mystique" and "The Second Stage". Friedan was married and had three children. She was a prominent feminist and activist and helped found the National Organization for Women.
5. E.L. Doctorow - Doctorow lived in Sag Harbor for over 25 years until his death in 2015. He wrote several books during his time in the Hamptons, including "Ragtime" and "Billy Bathgate". Doctorow was married and had two children. He was known for his historical fiction and his ability to capture the essence of a particular era.
6. James Jones - Jones lived in Southampton and wrote the novel "From Here to Eternity", which was later adapted into a film. Jones was married and had three children. He was a veteran of World War II and his experiences in the military influenced much of his writing.
7. George Plimpton - Plimpton lived in Sagaponack and founded The Paris Review during his time in the Hamptons. He wrote several books, including "Paper Lion" and "Truman Capote: In Which Various Friends, Enemies, Acquaintances, and Detractors Recall His Turbulent Career". Plimpton was married and had four children. He was known for his literary and social connections and his ability to bring people together.
8. Frank McCourt - McCourt lived in Quogue and wrote the memoir "Angela's Ashes" during his time in the Hamptons. He was married and had three children. McCourt was a former schoolteacher and his experiences teaching in New York City influenced much of his writing.
9. Tom Wolfe - Wolfe had a summer home in East Hampton and wrote about the Hamptons in his novel "The Bonfire of the Vanities". He was married and had two children. Wolfe was known for his colorful personality and his unique writing style, which combined journalism and fiction.
10. Edward Albee - Albee lived in Montauk for many years until his death in 2016. He wrote several plays during his time in the Hamptons, including "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and "A Delicate Balance". Albee was openly gay and was known for his unconventional approach to theater and his biting wit.