The Forerunners

Name: The Forerunners
Author: Romain Rolland

By Romain Rolland

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Essays, Letters & Speeches French Literature History - Modern (1750+)

About This Book

A collection of essays, speeches and letters written in Switzerland during 1915–1919 that defend intellectual independence and international solidarity amid the First World War. An opening ode invokes peace, and subsequent pieces pay tribute to and critique contemporary thinkers and activists while resisting censorship, jingoism and repression. The writings mix personal tributes, editorial polemic and public appeals, celebrating figures like Tolstoy and Gorki, addressing political leaders, and urging humanitarianism, cultural cooperation and a renewed commitment to free thought as the basis for moral and political reconstruction in Europe.

About the Author

Romain Rolland

Romain Rolland was a French novelist, playwright, and musicologist, known for his profound exploration of human experience and the arts. He gained prominence with his monumental work "Jean-Christophe," a multi-volume novel that reflects his deep engagement with music and philosophy. Rolland's writing often delves into themes of individuality and the struggle against societal constraints, making him a significant figure in early 20th-century literature. His works, including "Above the Battle" and "Clerambault: The Story of an Independent Spirit During the War," showcase his commitment to pacifism and humanism during tumultuous times. A Nobel laureate in Literature, Rolland's legacy continues to influence writers and thinkers around the world.