"Messieurs les ronds-de-cuir" by Georges Courteline is a satirical and humorous portrayal of the bureaucratic world in France during the late 19th century. The story follows a group of civil servants as they navigate the absurdities and inefficiencies of their workplace. Courteline's wit and sharp observations shine through in his characters, each representing a different facet of the bureaucratic machine.

The novel offers a scathing critique of the pitfalls of red tape and the power struggles that often come with working in a government office. Courteline's writing is clever and insightful, showcasing a keen understanding of human nature and the inherent flaws of the system.

Despite being written over a century ago, "Messieurs les ronds-de-cuir" still feels relevant today, as the themes of bureaucracy, inefficiency, and office politics remain prevalent in modern society. Overall, Courteline's novel is a delightful and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the frustrations of navigating a bureaucratic maze.

Book Description:

Messieurs les ronds-de-cuir, de Georges Courteline, parut, pour la première fois, en feuilleton, dans l’Echo de Paris, au cours des années 1891-1892. Une version légèrement remaniée fut éditée, sous forme de livre, par Flammarion, en 1893.

Le livre, constitué d’une suite de cinq tableaux, narre la vie de quelques employés d’un service administratif – celui des Dons et Legs – dont l’activité, suivie pendant quelques jours, dresse, sous le mode de la comédie, une satire féroce du monde des employés de bureau.
(par Aldor)