Routledge Revivals: Lost Illusions (1974): Paul L?autaud and his World [Paperback]

Paul L?autaud was both one of the oddest characters in French literature and, as a staff member of the review Mercure de France, at the centre of Parisian literary life for over half a century. First published in 1974, this book represents the first full length biography of L?autaud in any language. The author recreates the world of a man who, once regarded as a mere eccentric, is now recognised as a significant figure in contemporary literature. It traces L?autauds intimate friendships with many famous writers of the time and gives a lively panorama of the French literary scene and its vivid characters.

Acknowledgements; Introduction; I The Child in the Rue des Martyrs II First Love III The Mercure de France: Vallette, Rachilde, Gourmont and Schwon IV Diderots Nephew V Mother and Son VI Father and Son VII Women& and Animals VIII A Seat in the Stalls IX Friends: Billy, Apollinaire, Rouveyre, Gide X The Scourge XI The Journal XII The End of the Affair XIII The Radio Star XIV Last Things; L?autauds Works; Bibliography; Index

First published in 1974, this book represents the first full length biography of L?autaud in any language. The author recreates the world of a man who, once regarded as a mere eccentric, is now recognised as a significant figure in contemporary literature.