Jules Renard

Date of Birth: February 22, 1864

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: May 22, 1910

Biography

Pierre-Jules Renard, known as Jules Renard, was a prominent French author and dramatist born on February 22, 1864, in Châlons-du-Maine, Mayenne, France. Renard gained fame primarily for his witty and observant prose, encapsulated in his celebrated work “Histoires Naturelles” (Natural Histories) and “Poil de Carotte” (Carrot Top), which is a semi-autobiographical novel. Renard’s works often reflected his keen observations of rural life and human nature, delivered with a mix of irony and compassion. Renard moved to Paris to pursue his literary ambitions, becoming part of the literary circles that included figures like Edmond de Goncourt and Alphonse Daudet. He was a regular contributor to the literary journal “Mercure de France,” and his diary, published posthumously, provides an insightful look into the life of a writer during the Belle Époque. In addition to his literary endeavors, Renard was active in politics and served as the mayor of Chitry, a small village in Burgundy, from 1904 until his death in 1910. Despite his relatively short life, Renard’s influence on French literature has been enduring.

5 Interesting Facts about Jules Renard

1. Jules Renard was elected to the Académie Goncourt in 1907, a prestigious French literary organization.

2. His novel “Poil de Carotte” has been adapted into several films and plays, becoming a classic in French literature.

3. Renard was deeply influenced by the natural world, which is evident in his descriptive and vivid portrayals of animals and rural life.

4. He kept a detailed diary from 1887 until his death, which has been highly regarded for its literary and historical value.

5. Despite his success, Renard often struggled with depression and a sense of inadequacy, themes that permeate his works.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jules Renard

1. “Writing is the only profession where no one considers you ridiculous if you earn no money.”

2. “The truly free man is the one who can turn down an invitation to dinner without giving an excuse.”

3. “Words are the coins making up the currency of sentences, and there are always too many small coins.”

4. “Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired.”

5. “The pain passes, but the beauty remains.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Renard’s highest net worth is not precisely documented, but his works have garnered lasting acclaim, suggesting moderate financial success relative to his era’s standards.