Francois de Malherbe

Date of Birth: 1555

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: October 16, 1628

Biography

François de Malherbe was a prominent French poet and critic born in 1555 in Le-Lus-Saint-Sauveur, Normandy, France. He is best known for his role in reforming French poetry and for his influence on the classical school of French literature. Malherbe’s work focused on clarity, precision, and purity in language, which was a significant shift from the more ornate and elaborate style that preceded him. Malherbe’s career took a significant turn when he became the court poet for King Henry IV of France. His poetry is noted for its meticulous craftsmanship and adherence to strict poetic forms. He was also known for his critical eye and did not shy away from critiquing his contemporaries, which earned him both respect and animosity. His most famous work includes the “Ode à Du Perrier,” written in memory of a young girl who had died, which exemplifies his clarity and emotional restraint. Malherbe’s rigorous approach to poetry influenced many subsequent French poets, including Boileau, Racine, and La Fontaine.

5 Interesting Facts about Francois de Malherbe

1. François de Malherbe was appointed as a royal poet for King Henry IV of France.

2. He is credited with reforming French poetry by advocating for clarity, precision, and purity in language.

3. Malherbe was a strict critic and often criticized his contemporaries, which earned him both respect and animosity.

4. His most famous poem, “Ode à Du Perrier,” mourns the death of a young girl and is noted for its emotional restraint.

5. Malherbe’s influence extended to subsequent generations of French poets, including Boileau, Racine, and La Fontaine.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francois de Malherbe

1. “Un bon poète n’est pas plus utile à l’État qu’un bon joueur de quilles.” (A good poet is no more useful to the state than a good skittle player.)

2. “Ce qui se conçoit bien s’énonce clairement, et les mots pour le dire arrivent aisément.” (What is well conceived is clearly said, and the words to say it come easily.)

3. “Les larmes sont les pétales du cœur.” (Tears are the petals of the heart.)

4. “Rien ne sert de courir; il faut partir à point.” (There’s no use in running; one must start on time.)

5. “Ores que par la mort le sort m’est favorable, Pourquoi vous offensez-vous que j’en sois raisonnable?” (Now that fate favors me by death, why are you offended that I am reasonable about it?)

Highest Net Worth Achieved

François de Malherbe’s highest net worth is not documented as he lived during a time when financial records of poets were not commonly kept. However, his position as a court poet would have afforded him a comfortable living.