Customer Reviews

The Cursed Poets (Green Integer)

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I enjoyed this book as much for the rich poetry as for the authentic glimpse it gives of the poets who believed in art for art's sake. This bilingual (French and English) book will deeply interest readers who love the work of the early Symbolists, the Decadents and the Parnassiens. If French Impressionism with its sensuous tapestry of images does not tempt you, there are other reasons to dip into this book. There is historical background to the words introducing Verlaine's friends (the so called `cursed poets' whom he promoted via this book). The book made me look up more on each poet (some of them like Rimbaud and Mallarme are famous; the others did not achieve much fame). Reading the book one gets hints of the inter-relationships (sometimes scandalous liaisons) between them. I suggest read the book first and then follow its clues further for the full human interest.
What do poets pick up from their own verse to showcase their best talent to other poets? This is a book truly for, by and of poets. For non-poets like me, this book reveals the need of the poets to defend their work and their reputation. We read of Verlaine's dissatisfaction of being labeled `decadent'. We see the skilful use of words when he wants to highlight a poet's virtues. He does so subtly for greater effect. We enjoy the elaborate eulogies, which are rich in adjectives, too.
If you love French Impressionism- you will enjoy each page. If you do not know French- this is the chance to get as close as possible in English to the real thing. If you do know French- you will enjoy the chance to compare the words and images in the two languages.
The book is ideally sized (it fits the palm). I recommend the book as a romantic gift as well as one for serious literary pursuits.