Last Verses

Setting a precedent that has not been surpassed in more than a century, this full-length collection from a classic French symbolist poet explores an innovative, organic form of free verse. Juxtaposing common objects with romantic ideals, this final work—penned by a dying man—abandons the literary conventions of the era, and instead utilizes experimental rhythmic patterns, psychological realism, and impressionistic language. Honest, shocking, and enthralling, Laforgue projects his ideas into uncharted territories of spiritual realms, sexual extremity, and the purity of despair. This intricate work is made accessible to modern readers through the elegant translation that captures the spirit of the original, while the original French is still available on facing pages.