French Notebooks

Ilya Ehrenburg (1891–1967) – writer, poet, journalist, translator from French and Spanish, public figure.
Of all the countries in Europe, he was most closely associated with France – both because he lived there the longest and because he knew and felt her language, culture, and history the best.
«French Notebooks», written in 1957, created a sensation in literary circles – the famous Ehrenburg's Aesopian language, sharp statements, and deep reflections sparked great interest among readers.
Why did Hugo and other writers of that time have a skeptical attitude towards the work of Stendhal? How did Picasso transition from academicism to cubism, becoming an innovator? Why did Impressionists love and hate each other? And what exactly is French culture and its legacy in world civilization?
Ehrenburg answers these and many other questions, rediscovering France and its most vibrant representatives.