Journal Des Goncourt (deuxième Série, Deuxième Volume): Mémoires De La Vie Littéraire

A literary memoir written in the late 19th century. The work serves as a collection of personal reflections and observations concerning various notable literary and philosophical figures, focusing on the interactions and dialogues around political, social, and artistic issues of the time. The nature of the material suggests an intimate and critical portrayal of the intellectual landscape in France during this period. The opening of this volume sets the stage for a reflective narrative filled with pointed dialogues and controversies involving influential figures such as Ernest Renan and Théophile Gautier. The author begins by addressing a dispute with Renan regarding some previously published dialogues, defending his role as a chronicler of contemporary thought and emphasizing the authenticity of his observations. Throughout the initial entries, themes of literary criticism, societal commentary, and personal introspection are woven together, illustrating the complexities of literary friendships, political climates, and the struggles of artistic expression against the backdrop of 19th-century France.