Bluebirds

The collection showcases a progression from Romanticism's sentimentalism to the darker themes of the Decadent Movement, reflecting Catulle Mendès' literary evolution. Translated for the first time into English, these stories highlight Mendès' role as a pivotal figure in the transition between these literary movements, influenced by his connections, including his marriage to Théophile Gautier's daughter. Written before the Decadent Movement gained popularity, the tales encapsulate a nuanced world-view, illustrating the shift in artistic sensibilities of the late 19th century.