Jean Cocteau
Jean Cocteau was a French poet, playwright, novelist, designer, filmmaker, visual artist and critic. Born on July 5, 1889, in Maisons-Laffitte, France, he was a prominent figure in the avant-garde movement and is best known for his novel 'Les Enfants Terribles' (1929), the play 'The Human Voice' (1930), and the films 'The Blood of a Poet' (1930), 'Beauty and the Beast' (1946), and 'Orpheus' (1950). Cocteau's work is celebrated for its dreamlike quality and exploration of the human psyche. He was elected to the Académie française in 1955 and passed away on October 11, 1963, in Milly-la-Forêt, France.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Les Enfants Terribles
"Les Enfants Terribles" is a haunting tale of sibling love and rivalry. The story revolves around two siblings, Elisabeth and Paul, who create a private world of their own, isolated from the outside world, in a Parisian apartment. Their intense bond is both destructive and all-consuming, causing them to reject the outside world and its conventions. This results in a tragic ending, as their intense relationship leads to a series of unfortunate events, including heartbreak, manipulation, and ultimately, death.
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2. Le Coq Et L'arlequin
This book is a notable manifesto that critiques the influence of German music on French national identity, advocating instead for a return to French musical traditions and the embrace of modernity. Written in the early 20th century, it emphasizes the importance of simplicity, clarity, and the incorporation of elements from popular culture and other arts into music. The author, a prominent figure in the avant-garde movement, calls for a rejection of Wagnerism and a celebration of French composers and artists who embody these principles. Through its vivid prose and passionate argumentation, the work seeks to inspire a cultural renaissance that redefines French music and its role in the broader artistic landscape.
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3. The Infernal Machine And Other Works
"The Infernal Machine and Other Works" is a collection that showcases the literary prowess of its French author, featuring a diverse array of plays, poems, and essays. The centerpiece of the compilation is a reimagined version of a classic Greek tragedy, retold with a modernist twist that delves into the psychological complexities of its characters. The author's unique voice and avant-garde approach breathe new life into timeless themes, exploring the interplay between fate and free will, the nature of love and obsession, and the enduring power of myth. The additional works included in the volume further demonstrate the author's versatility and his contributions to the surrealist movement, cementing his status as a multifaceted artist of the 20th century.
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4. Orpheus
"Orpheus" is a modern retelling of the classic Greek myth, reimagined through the lens of a 20th-century setting. The story revolves around a poet who becomes obsessed with Death, personified as a mysterious and captivating princess. As he navigates a world where the boundaries between the mortal realm and the underworld blur, his love and artistic pursuits lead him into a surreal journey of passion, betrayal, and introspection. The narrative delves into themes of creativity, the destructive nature of love, and the quest for immortality through art, all while challenging the perceptions of reality and the supernatural.
