What is the author's purpose in the novel, Lust for Life?

Stone's belief that Van Gogh was misunderstood in his lifetime and subsequently treated unfairly in biographies provided a good deal of the inspiration for Lust for Life. Prior gossip and publicity presented Van Gogh as having driven himself insane through his obsession with art. Stone's desire to set the record straight resulted in a benefit to both Van Gogh's personal reputation and to the public.