Paul Verlaine Libri

Poesie

Focusing on the theme of love, this collection of poetry reflects Paul Verlaine's deep emotions surrounding his relationship with Mathilde Mauté de Fleurville, his future child-wife. Written against the backdrop of the Franco-Prussian War, it captures a range of feelings including joy, doubt, and passionate desire. Critics have noted its significance as a transformative work, marking a shift from traditional, descriptive poetry to a more personal and introspective expression of the poet's inner struggles and emotions.

Paul Verlaine's later poetry, particularly in "Songs for Her" and "Odes in Her Honor," showcases a shift from his traditionally nuanced style to a more direct celebration of physical and emotional love. These works reflect the passionate relationship between a middle-aged man and two women, emphasizing musicality and experimentation rather than subtlety. While still retaining his characteristic lyrical quality, these poems boldly express desire and affection, offering a fresh perspective on Verlaine's poetic evolution.

Fêtes Galantes captures the essence of French comedy and pastoral life through vivid imagery of characters from commedia dell’arte, set against enchanting landscapes. The poems reflect Verlaine's emotional depth, exploring themes of melancholy and romantic longing. In contrast, Songs Without Words delves into the complexities of love, focusing on relationships with a childhood cousin, a young wife, and fellow poet Arthur Rimbaud, all set against the backdrop of the Ardennes and urban locales. Notably, it features the renowned poem "Il pleure dans mon coeur..."

An anthology of works by nineteenth-century French poet Paul Verlaine, presenting both the French texts and new translations and setting the poems in the context of Verlaine's troubled life and his literary development.

The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. It aims to protect and promote cultural literature by providing an affordable, high-quality modern edition that remains faithful to the original. This commitment highlights the importance of maintaining access to classic texts for contemporary readers.

The collection features early works by Paul Verlaine, showcasing his distinctive voice that blends Romantic and Parnassian influences. First published in 1866, it reflects the impact of notable poets such as Baudelaire, Hugo, and Gautier. This debut marked the beginning of Verlaine's illustrious career, establishing him as a significant figure in French poetry. The poems explore themes of beauty, emotion, and the complexities of love, setting the stage for his later, more innovative works.

The collection features a selection of Paul Verlaine's most significant works, showcasing his unique lyrical style and mastery of rhyme. Included are poems from notable collections like Sagesse and Aquarelles, highlighting his place among 19th-century literary giants. This edition pairs the original French text with English translations by Arthur Symons, enhancing the reading experience. It also offers two insightful introductions and illustrations, making it a comprehensive resource for both new readers and those familiar with Verlaine's poetry.