Charles Baudelaire was a French poet, critic, and translator who is widely regarded as one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century. Born in Paris in 1821, Baudelaire was a major figure in the literary and artistic movement known as Symbolism. He is perhaps best known for his collection of poems called "Les Fleurs du mal" (The Flowers of Evil), which was first published in 1857.
"Spleen" is a poem by Baudelaire that is included in "Les Fleurs du mal". The poem is a representation of the feeling of boredom, disillusionment, and despair that Baudelaire often experienced. It is a reflection on the poet's own state of mind and the sense of ennui that he felt in the modern world.
The poem is divided into two parts, the first describing the physical symptoms of spleen and the second focusing on the psychological aspects of the condition. The poem uses vivid, often disturbing imagery to convey the feelings of isolation and despair that the speaker experiences, and it reflects Baudelaire's belief that modern life was characterized by a sense of spiritual emptiness and a loss of moral values.
"Spleen" is one of Baudelaire's most famous and widely-read poems. It has been translated into many languages and has influenced numerous artists and writers, including T.S. Eliot and the Surrealists. The poem is often seen as a representation of the themes and concerns that characterized Baudelaire's work, including a fascination with the darker aspects of human experience, an interest in the fleeting nature of beauty, and a sense of alienation from the world. #literature #poetry
