Tip on a Dead Jockey (story)

Tip on a Dead Jockey is a short story written by Irwin Shaw, first published in The New Yorker in 1957. It is a suspenseful tale exploring themes of financial desperation, marital discord, and moral ambiguity. The story centers around Lloyd Moore, an American ex-fighter pilot and struggling artist residing in France. Moore, facing mounting debts and a strained marriage, is approached by an enigmatic acquaintance with an offer to invest in a "sure thing" horse race. The information comes from a source implied to be deceased, hence the title’s morbid reference.

The narrative follows Moore's internal conflict as he grapples with the ethical implications of the offer and the potential consequences of gambling his remaining resources. He is torn between his desire for financial security and his inherent sense of right and wrong. His wife, Dorothy, further complicates the situation with her disapproval of his past gambling habits and her general unhappiness with their current lifestyle.

As Moore becomes increasingly invested in the outcome of the race, the tension escalates, culminating in a dramatic climax that exposes the true nature of the "tip" and its devastating effect on Moore's life and relationships. The story is notable for its tight pacing, evocative descriptions of the French setting, and exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. It is considered one of Shaw's more memorable and impactful short stories.