La femme assise

Name: La femme assise
Author: Guillaume Apollinaire

By Guillaume Apollinaire

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French Literature

About This Book

A young woman raised with a love of horses becomes entangled in exploitative relationships that redirect her life into circles of wealth and decadence. Seduced and mentored by an older physician, she is later taken to Russia and becomes the mistress of a powerful noble, witnessing violent revelry, cruelty, and moral excess. She finds consolation in a faithful friend, in her art—drawing horses and flowers—and in memory of earlier equine pleasures. The prose shifts between intimate recollection and vivid social scenes to examine desire, exploitation, memory, and the uneasy solace of creativity amid humiliation.

About the Author

Guillaume Apollinaire

Guillaume Apollinaire was a French poet, playwright, and art critic, known for his innovative contributions to modern poetry and his role in the development of Surrealism. Born in 1880, he is celebrated for his unique style that blends traditional forms with avant-garde techniques. His notable works include "Alcools," a collection that showcases his experimentation with free verse, and "Calligrammes," which features poems arranged in visual forms. Apollinaire's writings often reflect his fascination with art and the tumultuous experiences of his time, particularly during World War I. He remains a significant figure in 20th-century literature, influencing generations of poets and artists.