Lust for Life

The narrative is primarily constructed from the extensive collection of letters exchanged between Vincent van Gogh and his brother, Theo. Irving Stone supplemented this primary correspondence with on-site research in the various European locations where the artist lived and worked.

A 1956 biographical film directed by Vincente Minnelli was adapted from this novel, featuring Kirk Douglas as Vincent van Gogh. The production is noted for filming on location in many of the actual places where the artist resided and for incorporating reproductions of his paintings into the visual style.