The Penguin Book of French Poetry: 1820-1950 with Prose Translations, edited and translated by William Rees, is an anthology that offers a comprehensive exploration of French poetry written between 1820 and 1950.
Considered a landmark collection, it features poems by major French figures like:
- Charles Baudelaire
- Paul Verlaine
- Arthur Rimbaud
- André Breton
While also including works by lesser-known poets whose contributions proved to be significant for the development of French poetry.
Rees doesn't just provide translations, but also offers insightful introductions to each poet, outlining their background, aesthetics, and the movements they were part of. These introductions along with the prose translations make this collection accessible to a wider audience, even those who don't have a strong background in French literature.
Why You Should Read The Penguin Book of French Poetry
- Explore a Rich Literary Movement: Immerse yourself in a century and a half of rich and diverse French poetry.
- Discover Pioneering Poets: Encounter the works of both established and lesser-known French poets who played a role in shaping the genre.
- Understand Historical Context: The introductions provide valuable context about the poets and the movements they were part of.
- Appreciation Through Translation: The readable prose translations allow you to appreciate the poems even if you don't read French.
- Gateway to Further Exploration: This collection can serve as a springboard for further exploration of specific poets or movements that pique your interest.
Whether you're a poetry aficionado or simply curious about French literature, The Penguin Book of French Poetry offers a valuable introduction to this vibrant tradition.
Descriptions are sourced from publishers or third parties and are not independently verified
See our disclaimer
