Sully Prudhomme (1839–1907)

A great poem, epic in scope, that covers so much in so little time. The poetic fervor, the longing, the disgust, and the observations are all here. There is an incredible amount of subtlety and graceful weaving of sentences together. It is a great work.

4 stars!

This edition, which I read in French, is quite an amazing poem. It is deeply layered, sophisticated, and fluttering in its effects and meanings. It uses a very distinguished and complex vocabulary and I would suggest having a good dictionary handy, but this is worth it. Overall, a great poem in French and for those interested in Nobel laureates, poetry, and French works- I recommend it.

3.5 stars.

A magnificent poem, one that touches on so many levels and burrows deep into imagery and symbolism. This, I believe, is where Prudhomme begins his stride towards literary greatness. Of all the works I've read by Prudhomme thus far, this one is my favorite.

4 stars!

Unfortunately, this short collection did not live up to the impressions that the previous ones, in chronological order, did. Nevertheless, there were revealing turns of phrase and Prudhomme still managed to describe an era of loss. It seemed like he was grasping for something further that was always out of reach.

A good collection, but his others have been better.

3 stars.