Putois 1907 By: Anatole France (1844-1924)
In Anatole France's "Putois 1907," readers are taken on a compelling journey through the early 20th century, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and societal corruption. Set in Paris, the novel centers around the enigmatic character of Putois and his struggles to navigate a world consumed by greed and materialism. One of the defining aspects of this book is France's exquisite prose, which captivates readers from the very first page. His eloquent description of the city and its inhabitants transports readers to the bustling streets of Paris, immersing them in the rich and vibrant atmosphere of the time. France's mastery of language is truly commendable, as he effortlessly weaves together vivid imagery and profound philosophical ideas. The character of Putois adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Despite leading a seemingly ordinary life as a minor clerk, there is an air of mystery surrounding him. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that Putois is not merely an ordinary man but rather a symbol of resistance against the oppressive forces of society. Through his experiences and encounters with various personalities, France expertly explores the complex nature of human relationships and the fragile nature of trust. Furthermore, the novel delves into the stark social inequalities prevalent during that era. France subtly critiques the rampant materialism and human exploitation that tainted the upper classes, highlighting the stark contrast between their opulent lives and the struggles faced by the less fortunate. These underlying socio-political themes add depth and substance to the story, elevating it beyond a mere romantic tale. Despite its many merits, "Putois 1907" does have its flaws. At times, France's tendency to delve into lengthy philosophical digressions can slow down the pacing of the story, making it feel somewhat cumbersome. Additionally, some readers may find the archaic language and cultural references challenging to decipher, requiring extra effort to fully grasp the nuances of the text. In conclusion, Anatole France's "Putois 1907" is a thought-provoking novel that invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the societal dynamics of early 20th-century Paris. While the book may not be easily accessible to all due to its dense language and philosophical musings, for those willing to invest time and effort, it offers a rewarding and intellectually stimulating experience. First Page: PUTOIS By Anatole France Translated by William Patten. Copyright, 1907, by P. F. Collier & Son. Dedicated to Georges Brandes I This garden of our childhood, said Monsieur Bergeret, this garden that one could pace off in twenty steps, was for us a whole world, full of smiles and surprises. "Lucien, do you recall Putois?" asked Zoe, smiling as usual, the lips pressed, bending over her work. "Do I recall Putois! Of all the faces I saw as a child that of Putois remains the clearest in my remembrance. All the features of his face and his character are fixed in my mind. He had a pointed cranium..." "A low forehead," added Mademoiselle Zoe. And the brother and sister recited alternately, in a monotonous voice, with an odd gravity, the points in a sort of description: "A low forehead." "Squinting eyes." "A shifty glance." "Crow's feet at the temples." "The cheek bones sharp, red and shining." "His ears had no rims to them." "The features were devoid of all expression." "His hands, which were never still, alone expressed his meaning." "Thin, somewhat bent, feeble in appearance..." "In reality he was unusually strong." "He easily bent a five franc piece between the first finger and the thumb..." "Which was enormous." "His voice was drawling.... Continue reading book >>

Putois 1907 By: Anatole France (1844-1924)

In Anatole France's "Putois 1907," readers are taken on a compelling journey through the early 20th century, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and societal corruption. Set in Paris, the novel centers around the enigmatic character of Putois and his struggles to navigate a world consumed by greed and materialism.

One of the defining aspects of this book is France's exquisite prose, which captivates readers from the very first page. His eloquent description of the city and its inhabitants transports readers to the bustling streets of Paris, immersing them in the rich and vibrant atmosphere of the time. France's mastery of language is truly commendable, as he effortlessly weaves together vivid imagery and profound philosophical ideas.

The character of Putois adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. Despite leading a seemingly ordinary life as a minor clerk, there is an air of mystery surrounding him. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that Putois is not merely an ordinary man but rather a symbol of resistance against the oppressive forces of society. Through his experiences and encounters with various personalities, France expertly explores the complex nature of human relationships and the fragile nature of trust.

Furthermore, the novel delves into the stark social inequalities prevalent during that era. France subtly critiques the rampant materialism and human exploitation that tainted the upper classes, highlighting the stark contrast between their opulent lives and the struggles faced by the less fortunate. These underlying socio-political themes add depth and substance to the story, elevating it beyond a mere romantic tale.

Despite its many merits, "Putois 1907" does have its flaws. At times, France's tendency to delve into lengthy philosophical digressions can slow down the pacing of the story, making it feel somewhat cumbersome. Additionally, some readers may find the archaic language and cultural references challenging to decipher, requiring extra effort to fully grasp the nuances of the text.

In conclusion, Anatole France's "Putois 1907" is a thought-provoking novel that invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the societal dynamics of early 20th-century Paris. While the book may not be easily accessible to all due to its dense language and philosophical musings, for those willing to invest time and effort, it offers a rewarding and intellectually stimulating experience.

First Page:

PUTOIS

By Anatole France

Translated by William Patten.

Dedicated to Georges Brandes

This garden of our childhood, said Monsieur Bergeret, this garden that one could pace off in twenty steps, was for us a whole world, full of smiles and surprises.

"Lucien, do you recall Putois?" asked Zoe, smiling as usual, the lips pressed, bending over her work.

"Do I recall Putois! Of all the faces I saw as a child that of Putois remains the clearest in my remembrance. All the features of his face and his character are fixed in my mind. He had a pointed cranium..."

"A low forehead," added Mademoiselle Zoe.

And the brother and sister recited alternately, in a monotonous voice, with an odd gravity, the points in a sort of description:

"A low forehead."

"Squinting eyes."

"A shifty glance."

"Crow's feet at the temples."

"The cheek bones sharp, red and shining."

"His ears had no rims to them."

"The features were devoid of all expression."

"His hands, which were never still, alone expressed his meaning."

"Thin, somewhat bent, feeble in appearance..."

"In reality he was unusually strong."

"He easily bent a five franc piece between the first finger and the thumb..."

"Which was enormous."

"His voice was drawling.... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Anatole France
Wikipedia – Putois 1907

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