Nobel Laureate 1901 Sully Prudhomme

Nobel Laureate 1901

Sully Prudhomme

Nobel Laureate 1901 Sully Prudhomme

In the history of the World Literature, French poet and essayist René François Armand "Sully" Prudhomme received the inaugural Nobel Prize for Literature in 1901, recognizing his contributions to restoring elegance and balance to poetry in reaction to Romanticism's excesses.

Short Biography 

French poet and essayist René François Armand "Sully" Prudhomme (1839- 1907) was born in Paris. Initially studying engineering, Prudhomme later turned to philosophy and poetry. His plans changed due to an eye illness, leading him to work as a factory clerk before pursuing law in 1860.

His early poetry, marked by melancholy and inspired by a troubled love affair, found expression in "Stances et poèmes" (1865), featuring the well-known poem "Le vase brisé." He was associated with the Parnassian movement.

The Parnassians, led by Charles-Marie-René Leconte de Lisle, opposed Romanticism. They prioritized restraint, precise description, and revived the sonnet, exploring contemporary themes and later delving into mythologies and exotic civilizations.

The Franco-Prussian War negatively impacted his health, but he evolved from a sentimental to a more personal style. Influenced by Lucretius's "De rerum natura," he translated its first book. Notable works include "La Justice" (1878) and "Le Bonheur" (1888).

After "Le Bonheur," Prudhomme focused on essays on aesthetics and philosophy, contributing to his 1901 Nobel Prize. Poor health in later years confined him to Châtenay-Malabry, where he continued writing essays. He died suddenly on September 6, 1907, and rests at Père-Lachaise in Paris. 

Two Best Works 

Sully Prudhomme is known for several works that showcase his poetic talent and philosophical depth. While opinions on the "best" works can vary depending on individual tastes and preferences, two of his most celebrated works are often considered to be:

"La Justice" (Justice)

This work from Prudhomme's later period reflects his philosophical inclinations, exploring concepts of justice and morality with a refined and contemplative approach. "La Justice" (Justice) is an important poem by Sully Prudhomme.

In this poem, he talks about fairness and moral choices. Prudhomme explores the idea of justice, thinking about what is right and wrong. Through his words, he makes us think about the ethical decisions people make in their lives.

The poem reflects Prudhomme's later interest in philosophy. It engages readers in thinking about morality and the pursuit of justice. "La Justice" is another example of how Prudhomme combined poetic expression with deep philosophical thoughts, making a lasting impact on French literature.

"Le Bonheur" (Happiness)

Another notable piece from his later years, "Le Bonheur" explores the Faustian pursuit of happiness, love, and knowledge. It reflects Prudhomme's evolving style and interest in philosophical subjects.

"Le Bonheur" (Happiness) is an important poem by Sully Prudhomme. In this poem, he talks about the search for happiness, love, and knowledge. It reflects on how people want to be happy and fulfilled.

Prudhomme uses vivid pictures and deep thoughts to show the challenges of finding happiness. The poem explores the idea of happiness like a journey, similar to the story of Faust.

Prudhomme's words make us think about the difficulties and sacrifices that come with trying to be happy. Written in his later style, "Le Bonheur" reveals Prudhomme's growth as a poet, turning his focus more to philosophy. The poem is a timeless look at human feelings and the ongoing quest for happiness, making it a lasting part of French literature.

Broken Vase
By Sully Prudhomme

The vase where this verbena is dying
was cracked by a blow from a fan.
It must have barely brushed it,
for it made no sound.

But the slight wound,
biting into the crystal day by day,
surely, invisibly crept
slowly all around it.

The clear water leaked out drop by drop.
The flowers' sap was exhausted.
Still no one suspected anything.
Don't touch! It's broken.

Thus often does the hand we love,
barely touching the heart, wound it.
Then the heart cracks by itself
and the flower of its love dies.

Still intact in the eyes of the world,
it feels its wound, narrow and deep,
grow and softly cry.
It's broken. Don't touch! 

Conclusion 

Sully Prudhomme stands as a seminal figure in French poetry, honored with the first Nobel Prize in Literature. His introspective works, marked by lyrical beauty and philosophical depth, explore themes of love, nature, and the human condition. Despite not achieving widespread recognition in his time, his legacy endures as a testament to his profound insights into life and literature.