Influential nineteenth-century French writer (1821–1867) best known for his highly imaginative and experimental verse, including the seminal 1857 collection Les Fleurs du Mal. ALS in French, signed “C. B.,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, no date but circa 1850s. Letter to his copyist, Monsieur Laumonier. In full (translated): “But I have no intention of depriving myself of your kindness, however I have been content for a long time to give certain days to one affair, and several days to another affair. I presume that I will have the work ready to give you Monday evening.” Also addressed and initialed on the reverse of the second integral sheet, “Monsieur Laumonier, C. B.” In fine condition. Baudelaire worked with Laumonier while translating the short stories of Edgar Allan Poe, releasing the first volume in 1856 under the title Histoires extraordinaires. The importance of Baudelaire’s interest in Poe is multifaceted—on a practical level, the translations brought him income in a time of financial distress. He also admired Poe, regarding him not only as an influence but as a kindred spirit, both of them ‘starving artist’ writers who embraced the fantastic, macabre, and grotesque. Baudelaire’s translations had a broader literary impact as well, considerably contributing to Poe’s popularity and favorable reception in Europe, particularly among the symbolists and surrealists. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA.
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