Paul Valéry Books

The Cahiers/Notebooks of Paul Valéry showcase his radical and creative intellect, delving into diverse fields such as arts, sciences, philosophy, history, and politics. Through these writings, Valéry examines linguistic, psychological, and social issues, consistently questioning the nature and functioning of the human mind, as well as the potential and limitations of thought. This exploration positions him as a significant thinker of the twentieth century, offering profound insights into the complexities of human understanding.

Valery's dialogues are his most important works of imagination in prose. Many consider the prose masterpieces Eupalinos and Dance and the Soul as the fullest and most characteristic expression of his genius. The dialogue form, "the most supple of the forms of expression, " was natural to Valery. "I found I was talking to myself in two voices, and began to write accordingly, " he said. His imagination and his philosophical mind found in his major dialogues the common ground they were always seeking. In the present volume, all the formal imaginary dialogues are brought together for the first time.

The collection features comprehensive reflections on poetry from a highly regarded contemporary poet known for his meticulous examination of the craft. It encompasses significant meditations on both the theory and practice of poetry, offering valuable insights into the poet's artistic process and philosophy. This work serves as a profound resource for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of poetic expression.

The Cahiers/Notebooks showcase Paul Valéry's radical intellect, blending explorations of arts, sciences, philosophy, and politics. Central to his inquiry are profound questions about the human mind and the nature of thought. Valéry's writing transcends conventional genres, featuring lyrical prose, fragmentary insights, and a mix of theoretical and creative expressions. His reflections, spanning over 50 years, resonate with contemporary themes, making his exploration of the Self both unique and universally relevant.

Valéry's collection showcases his role as a prominent public figure through a variety of occasional pieces, including speeches, interviews, and articles. Highlights include his reception speech at the French Academy, a welcoming address for Marshal Petain, and a charming commencement speech for young women. The collection also features memorial tributes to Emile Verhaeren and Henri Bremond, insightful commentary on the future of literature, and a critical analysis of Racine's Phèdre, reflecting his literary influence and engagement with contemporary issues.

Featuring a blend of imagination and wit, this collection showcases Valéry's unique ability to craft prose that reads like poetry. It includes his notable works, such as "Broken Stories" and "Mixtures," along with two significant poems, "Parables" and "The Angel." Each piece reflects his insightful observations and artistic depth, making this anthology a captivating exploration of his literary genius.

It begins with the poetry (French and English en face), including such masterpieces as "Le Cimetiere Marin" and portions of "La Jeune Parque"; then ranges through Valéry's work in fields as various as architecture, logic, the dance, literature, philosophy, and painting. It concludes with excerpts from his creative writings such as Monsieur Teste and the drama Mon Faust.The list of translators for this volume is distinguished. Among them are Lionel Abel, Léonie Adams, Malcolm Cowly, James Kirkup, C. Day Lewis, Jackson Mathews, Louise Varese, and Vernon Watkins.

The book offers a deep exploration of the artist's inner life through autobiographical writings by Valéry, detailing his childhood, adolescence, military service, travels, and poetic journey. It includes excerpts from his correspondence with Gide and Fourment, providing insight into his relationships and thoughts. Additionally, it features "The Avenues of the Mind," a 1927 interview, and Pierre Feline's reflections on Valéry, enriching the reader's understanding of his artistic and personal experiences.

The novel explores the concept of a mind that is detached from emotional sensibility through the character of Monsieur Teste, who embodies both the author's philosophical inquiries and the traits of an ordinary fictional character. Additionally, the volume features "Snapshots of Monsieur Teste," which includes excerpts from Valâery's personal notebooks, providing deeper insight into his thoughts and creative process.

Paul Valery (1871-1945) was a poet and essayist, and along with Verlaine and Mallarme is regarded as one of the most important Symbolist writers, and an influence on poets from Eliot to Ashbery. His first book of poetry, published when he was 45, was his masterpiece La Jeune Parque.