Death in the Afternoon is an impassioned look at bullfighting by one of its true aficionados.  It reflects Hemingway's conviction that bullfighting was more than mere  sport and reveals a rich source of inspiration for his art. The  unrivaled drama of bullfighting, with its rigorous combination of  athleticism and artistry, and its requisite display of grace under  pressure, ignited Hemingway's imagination. Seen through his eyes,  bullfighting becomes a richly choreographed ballet, with performers who  range from awkward amateurs to masters of great elegance and cunning. Death in the Afternoon is also a deeper contemplation of the nature of cowardice and bravery,  sport and tragedy, and is enlivened throughout by Hemingway's sharp  commentary on life and literature.