Remy de Gourmont

Date of Birth: April 4, 1858

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: September 27, 1915

Biography

Rémy de Gourmont was a French symbolist poet, novelist, and influential literary critic born in Bazoches-au-Houlme, Orne, France. He emerged as a central figure in the Symbolist movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. De Gourmont was known for his erudite and often esoteric prose, which significantly influenced contemporary and later writers. His work spans various genres, including poetry, essays, and novels, with notable contributions to literary criticism and philosophy. He was a co-founder of the influential literary magazine “Mercure de France” and was esteemed for his advocacy of literary freedom and innovation. De Gourmont’s intellectual pursuits and distinctive writing style carved him a unique niche in French literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Remy de Gourmont

1. Rémy de Gourmont was a leading figure in the Symbolist movement and was closely associated with other prominent writers and artists of the time.

2. He co-founded the literary magazine “Mercure de France,” which became a significant platform for Symbolist literature.

3. De Gourmont’s work often explored themes of eroticism, mysticism, and the subconscious, reflecting his deep interest in philosophy and psychology.

4. Despite suffering from lupus, which affected his health severely, he continued to write prolifically until his death.

5. De Gourmont was an outspoken critic of conventional morality and societal norms, advocating for intellectual and artistic freedom in his essays and critiques.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Remy de Gourmont

1. “Living is not a thing to be anticipated or planned; it must be lived.”

2. “The spirit is a garden; it is necessary to cultivate it well.”

3. “Art is the accomplice of love. Take love away and there is no longer art.”

4. “The artist must create a spark before he can make a fire and before art is born, the artist must be ready to be consumed by the fire of his own creation.”

5. “To write is to make oneself the echo of what cannot cease speaking.”