About
Paul Verlaine (1844-1896) was a major French poet of the late 19th century. Initially associated with the Parnassian movement, he became a central figure of Symbolism. His collections such as Poèmes saturniens, Fêtes galantes, and Romances sans paroles explore the musicality of verse and the nuances of emotion. His tumultuous life, marked by his relationship with Arthur Rimbaud and his imprisonment, influenced his work. He was elected 'Prince of Poets' in 1894.
* 1844-03-28 — † 1896-01-08
Major works
- Poèmes saturniens (1866)poetry collection
- Fêtes galantes (1869)poetry collection
- Romances sans paroles (1874)poetry collection
- Sagesse (1880)poetry collection
- Les Poètes maudits (1884)biographical essays
Key milestones
- 1873Shot Arthur Rimbaud during a quarrel in Brussels, then imprisoned for two years.
- 1882Published the poem 'Art poétique', considered a manifesto of Symbolism.
- 1894Elected 'Prince of Poets' upon the death of Leconte de Lisle.
Themes
musicalitymelancholylovespiritualitysuggestion
Sources: britannica.com · poetryfoundation.org