Two Poets By: Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850)
Honoré de Balzac's "Two Poets" is a captivating tale that delves into the complexities of artistic ambition, the destructive power of envy, and the fragility of creative souls. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Paris in the mid-19th century, this novella follows the lives of two talented poets, Théodore de Sommervieux and Émile Léon. Balzac masterfully depicts the stark contrast between the two protagonists, their differing approaches to their craft, and the repercussions of their choices. Théodore, a young poet full of romantic ideals, is enamored with the idea of true love and poetic fame. Meanwhile, Émile, a more experienced writer, views poetry as a means to acquire wealth, social standing, and the affections of women. Through their intense rivalry, Balzac examines the duality of artistry—its capacity to inspire greatness or breed destructive obsession. The characters are crafted with depth and nuance, allowing readers to witness their inner turmoil and vulnerabilities. Théodore's undying passion and naïveté make him a sympathetic figure, while Émile's calculated ambitions and duplicitous nature evoke both fascination and repulsion. Balzac skillfully explores the intricacies of their relationship, showing how envy and misguided ambition can lead to disastrous consequences. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the bustling streets of Paris, capturing the spirit of the era with meticulous detail. Balzac's prose is rich and eloquent, painting a vivid picture of the artistic community and the societal constraints that weigh heavily on the poets. It is through the exploration of these societal pressures and expectations that Balzac exposes the true price of artistic pursuit. "Two Poets" is not merely a story about poetry; it is an exploration of the human condition and the universal themes of love, passion, and the quest for recognition. Balzac invites readers to delve into the lives of these tormented artists, delving deep into their psyches as they balance their desires for artistic fulfillment with their personal relationships and societal obligations. Despite its brevity, "Two Poets" leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Balzac's poignant examination of the triumphs and tragedies of creative spirits resonates long after the final pages. It serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that success in the artistic realm may come at a cost, and that the pursuit of passion can easily spiral into obsession. In conclusion, Honoré de Balzac's "Two Poets" is a must-read for literature enthusiasts and those fascinated by the intoxicating power of art. Through its immersive storytelling and thought-provoking themes, this novella leaves an indelible mark on the reader, offering a glimpse into the tumultuous lives of two poets caught in the whirlwind of their ambitions. First Page: TWO POETS (Lost Illusions Part I) By Honore De Balzac Translated By Ellen Marriage PREPARER'S NOTE Two Poets is part one of a trilogy and begins the story of Lucien, his sister Eve, and his friend David in the provincial town of Angouleme. Part two, A Distinguished Provincial at Paris is centered on Lucien's Parisian life. Part three, Eve and David, reverts to the setting of Angouleme. In many references parts one and three are combined under the title Lost Illusions and A Distinguished Provincial at Paris is given its individual title. Following this trilogy Lucien's story is continued in another book, Scenes from a Courtesan's Life. DEDICATION To Monsieur Victor Hugo, It was your birthright to be, like a Rafael or a Pitt, a great poet at an age when other men are children; it was your fate, the fate of Chateaubriand and of every man of genius, to struggle against jealousy skulking behind the columns of a newspaper, or crouching in the subterranean places of journalism. For this reason I desired that your victorious name should help to win a victory for this work that I inscribe to you, a work which, if some persons are to be believed, is an act of courage as well as a veracious history. If there had been journalists in the time of Moliere, who can doubt but that they, like marquises, financiers, doctors, and lawyers, would have been within the province of the writer of plays? And why should Comedy, qui castigat ridendo mores , make an exception in favor of one power, when the Parisian press spares none? I am happy, monsieur, in this opportunity of subscribing myself your sincere admirer and friend, DE BALZAC... Continue reading book >>

Two Poets By: Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850)

Honoré de Balzac's "Two Poets" is a captivating tale that delves into the complexities of artistic ambition, the destructive power of envy, and the fragility of creative souls. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Paris in the mid-19th century, this novella follows the lives of two talented poets, Théodore de Sommervieux and Émile Léon.

Balzac masterfully depicts the stark contrast between the two protagonists, their differing approaches to their craft, and the repercussions of their choices. Théodore, a young poet full of romantic ideals, is enamored with the idea of true love and poetic fame. Meanwhile, Émile, a more experienced writer, views poetry as a means to acquire wealth, social standing, and the affections of women. Through their intense rivalry, Balzac examines the duality of artistry—its capacity to inspire greatness or breed destructive obsession.

The characters are crafted with depth and nuance, allowing readers to witness their inner turmoil and vulnerabilities. Théodore's undying passion and naïveté make him a sympathetic figure, while Émile's calculated ambitions and duplicitous nature evoke both fascination and repulsion. Balzac skillfully explores the intricacies of their relationship, showing how envy and misguided ambition can lead to disastrous consequences.

The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the bustling streets of Paris, capturing the spirit of the era with meticulous detail. Balzac's prose is rich and eloquent, painting a vivid picture of the artistic community and the societal constraints that weigh heavily on the poets. It is through the exploration of these societal pressures and expectations that Balzac exposes the true price of artistic pursuit.

"Two Poets" is not merely a story about poetry; it is an exploration of the human condition and the universal themes of love, passion, and the quest for recognition. Balzac invites readers to delve into the lives of these tormented artists, delving deep into their psyches as they balance their desires for artistic fulfillment with their personal relationships and societal obligations.

Despite its brevity, "Two Poets" leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Balzac's poignant examination of the triumphs and tragedies of creative spirits resonates long after the final pages. It serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that success in the artistic realm may come at a cost, and that the pursuit of passion can easily spiral into obsession.

In conclusion, Honoré de Balzac's "Two Poets" is a must-read for literature enthusiasts and those fascinated by the intoxicating power of art. Through its immersive storytelling and thought-provoking themes, this novella leaves an indelible mark on the reader, offering a glimpse into the tumultuous lives of two poets caught in the whirlwind of their ambitions.

First Page:

TWO POETS

(Lost Illusions Part I)

By Honore De Balzac

Translated By Ellen Marriage

PREPARER'S NOTE

Two Poets is part one of a trilogy and begins the story of Lucien, his sister Eve, and his friend David in the provincial town of Angouleme. Part two, A Distinguished Provincial at Paris is centered on Lucien's Parisian life. Part three, Eve and David, reverts to the setting of Angouleme. In many references parts one and three are combined under the title Lost Illusions and A Distinguished Provincial at Paris is given its individual title. Following this trilogy Lucien's story is continued in another book, Scenes from a Courtesan's Life.

DEDICATION

To Monsieur Victor Hugo,

It was your birthright to be, like a Rafael or a Pitt, a great poet at an age when other men are children; it was your fate, the fate of Chateaubriand and of every man of genius, to struggle against jealousy skulking behind the columns of a newspaper, or crouching in the subterranean places of journalism. For this reason I desired that your victorious name should help to win a victory for this work that I inscribe to you, a work which, if some persons are to be believed, is an act of courage as well as a veracious history. If there had been journalists in the time of Moliere, who can doubt but that they, like marquises, financiers, doctors, and lawyers, would have been within the province of the writer of plays? And why should Comedy, qui castigat ridendo mores , make an exception in favor of one power, when the Parisian press spares none? I am happy, monsieur, in this opportunity of subscribing myself your sincere admirer and friend,

DE BALZAC... Continue reading book >>

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