Raymond Queneau

Date of Birth: February 21, 1903

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: October 25, 1976

Biography

Raymond Queneau was a prolific French poet, novelist, and co-founder of the Oulipo (Ouvroir de littérature potentielle), a group of writers and mathematicians dedicated to creating works using constrained writing techniques. Born in Le Havre, France, Queneau was a master of wordplay and an innovator in modern literature. He initially studied philosophy at the Sorbonne in Paris, which deeply influenced his literary style. Queneau’s work is characterized by its playfulness, wit, and intellectual depth. His notable works include “Exercises in Style” and “Zazie in the Metro,” which have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be celebrated for their originality and linguistic creativity.

5 Interesting Facts about Raymond Queneau

1. Raymond Queneau served in the French army during World War II and was involved in the French Resistance.

2. He was a member of the Surrealist movement in the 1920s but later distanced himself from it.

3. Queneau’s novel “Zazie in the Metro” was adapted into a film by renowned director Louis Malle in 1960.

4. He was the director of the Encyclopédie de la Pléiade, a prestigious French literary encyclopedia.

5. Queneau was known for his fascination with mathematics, which he often incorporated into his literary works.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Raymond Queneau

1. “One can only regret that the work of art, as it grows old, becomes so frail.”

2. “The greatest writers are those whose works lay the ground for the renewal of literature.”

3. “The only thing that I am sure of is that I am sure of nothing.”

4. “Language is the only homeland.”

5. “Art is the only serious thing in the world. And the artist is the only person who is never serious.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific figures regarding Raymond Queneau’s net worth are not readily available, his contributions to literature and his position as a director at the Encyclopédie de la Pléiade suggest he achieved a level of financial and professional success.