Jacques Prevert

Date of Birth: February 4, 1900

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: April 11, 1977

Biography

Jacques Prévert was a renowned French poet and screenwriter born on February 4, 1900, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, a suburb of Paris, France. Prévert is best known for his simple yet profound poetry, which often focuses on life in Paris, love, and the human condition. His works have been celebrated for their accessibility and vivid imagery, making them beloved by both the French public and literary critics alike. Prévert’s early life was marked by an interest in the arts, which led him to join the surrealist movement in the 1920s. He collaborated with several notable artists, including painter Pablo Picasso and filmmaker Marcel Carné. His most famous poetry collection, “Paroles,” was published in 1946 and remains a staple of French literature. In addition to his poetry, Prévert made significant contributions to French cinema. He wrote the screenplays for several classic films, including “Les Enfants du Paradis” (Children of Paradise) and “Les Portes de la Nuit.” His work in film has been praised for its lyrical quality and emotional depth. Prévert continued to write and influence French culture until his death on April 11, 1977, in Omonville-la-Petite, France. Today, he is remembered as one of France’s greatest poets and a key figure in 20th-century French literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Jacques Prevert

1. Jacques Prévert joined the French surrealist movement in the 1920s and worked with several prominent artists, including André Breton.

2. His poetry collection “Paroles,” published in 1946, is one of the most widely read poetry books in France.

3. Prévert wrote the screenplay for the classic French film “Les Enfants du Paradis,” which is often considered one of the greatest films ever made.

4. He was also a talented songwriter and collaborated with composer Joseph Kosma to create the famous song “Les Feuilles mortes” (Autumn Leaves).

5. Prévert’s work has been translated into numerous languages, making him one of the most internationally recognized French poets.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jacques Prevert

1. “Even if happiness forgets you a little bit, never completely forget about it.”

2. “Millions and millions of years would still not give me half enough time to describe that tiny instant of all eternity when you put your arms around me and I put my arms around you.”

3. “Our father who art in heaven, stay there, and we will stay on earth which is sometimes so pretty.”

4. “To paint the portrait of a bird, first paint a cage with an open door.”

5. “When truth is no longer free, freedom is no longer real: the truths of the police are the truths of today.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Jacques Prévert’s highest net worth was never officially documented, but his contributions to literature and film have left an indelible mark on French culture, suggesting a significant cultural and intellectual wealth.

Children

Jacques Prévert had one daughter, Michèle Prévert, born in 1946. She has worked to preserve and promote her father’s legacy through various cultural activities and publications.