Joris-Karl Huysmans Boeken

First published in 1883, but never before translated into English, this collection of J.-K. Huysmans’ art criticism reveals the author of Against Nature to be as combative in his aesthetic opinions as he was in his literary ones. At a time when the Impressionists were still being ridiculed, or worse still ignored, Huysmans defiantly proclaimed Degas to be the best painter in France. He filled his pages with analyses of the works of artists whose genius and popularity have been confirmed by time: Gustave Caillebotte, Paul Gauguin, Mary Cassatt, Edouard Manet, Berthe Morisot, Odilon Redon and Gustave Moreau. Huysmans intersperses his reviews of these independent artists with those of the annual Official Salon, whose conventional and dryly academic works he lambasts with his customary gusto and invective. This is the first complete translation of L’Art moderne, and includes 200 black and white illustrations, notes and a glossary of artists.

The book aims to contribute to the preservation and repair of classic literature, highlighting the importance of maintaining original works for future generations. It reflects a commitment to ensuring that these timeless pieces remain accessible and intact, emphasizing the value of literary heritage.

Set against the backdrop of a grand cathedral, this work explores themes of spirituality and the aesthetic experience. The protagonist grapples with the complexities of faith and the allure of religious art, leading to profound personal reflections. The translation by Clara Bell and the editorial notes by C. Kegan Paul enhance the original narrative, providing readers with insights into the author's intentions and the historical context of the late 19th century. This reprint preserves the integrity of Huysmans' vision for contemporary audiences.

The story follows Jean des Esseintes, an eccentric and ailing aristocrat who rejects the norms of 19th-century bourgeois society. Seeking solace, he immerses himself in a self-fashioned artistic existence, distancing himself from the world he despises. His journey explores themes of isolation, aesthetics, and the conflict between individual desires and societal expectations.

The author is renowned for his distinctive use of language and rich vocabulary, which shine through in his most famous work, À rebours. Initially linked to Naturalism, his writing later aligned with the decadent movement, reflecting his profound pessimism influenced by Arthur Schopenhauer's philosophy. Huysmans, who sustained a lengthy career in the French civil service, is celebrated for his satirical wit and extensive knowledge, making his contributions to literature both unique and impactful.

Exploring themes of religion and personal struggle, the novel delves into the protagonist Durtal's journey amidst the backdrop of 1880s Satanism. As he grapples with his faith, Durtal's perspective reveals the moral complexities of a modern world he finds repulsive. The narrative, marked by its naturalistic style, reflects Huysmans' controversial approach to social and political commentary. This edition features premium acid-free paper and presents a translation by Keene Wallis, enhancing the reading experience of Huysmans' thought-provoking work.