Journal Des Goncourt (premier Volume): Mémoires De La Vie Littéraire

A literary memoir written in the mid-19th century. This volume chronicles the authors' experiences and observations from December 1851 to January 1870, capturing the vibrant literary scene of Paris as well as the authors' personal reflections on contemporary figures and events, including the political turmoil of their time. The work blends autobiographical elements with cultural commentary, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of two prominent literary figures who lived through tumultuous changes. The opening of this memoir introduces the Goncourt brothers' intent to document their lives and the myriad people they encountered, portraying them with sincerity and immediacy. It begins with the declaration of their first publication coinciding with a coup d'état, creating a sense of irony and urgency around their literary aspirations. The brothers express a desire to depict humanity in its ''true moment,'' influenced by both their passions and biases. The narrative unfolds as they navigate their early careers, dramatic personal experiences, and the challenges of establishing themselves in the Parisian literary world, setting the tone for a profound exploration of art, society, and their own identities.