Good day, readers. Today is July 5th, the 187th day of the year 2024, with 179 days remaining.
Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.
Albert Schweitzer
Today in Literary History:
On this day in 1946, the bikini was introduced in Paris by designer Louis Réard. While not directly related to literature, this event marked a significant moment in cultural history, influencing numerous works of fiction and non-fiction that explore themes of fashion, freedom, and societal norms.
Notable Birthdays:
Jean Cocteau, born on July 5, 1889, was a French poet, playwright, novelist, designer, filmmaker, visual artist, and critic. His diverse body of work includes the novel “Les Enfants Terribles” and the film “La Belle et la Bête”.
Today’s Readings:
From “Les Enfants Terribles” by Jean Cocteau: “There is always a moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.”
Literary Fact of the Day:
On July 5th, 1996, Dolly the sheep, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell, was born. This scientific breakthrough has inspired many literary works exploring the ethical implications and future possibilities of cloning and genetic engineering.
Advice for Writers:
Albert Schweitzer’s quote reminds us that passion is crucial to success. When writing, focus on what truly excites and motivates you. This passion will shine through in your work, making it more engaging and authentic.
Wishing you a day of joyful creation and inspired writing, dear readers. Until tomorrow, may your literary journey be guided by the love and passion you bring to your craft.
Cocteau wrote Les Enfants Terribles while in treatment for opium addiction and listened to a record of “Make Believe” over and over as he wrote. Even in translation I could hear the rhythms of the song in his prose, which is a good example of music and literature informing each other.
Cocteau also said to truly appreciate the novel one should read it while playing the song constantly. I’ve read it several times but I’ve never gone that far.
Thank you for your insightful comment on my blog, Christopher! Your reflection on Cocteau’s creative process and the interplay between music and literature is truly fascinating.
Cocteau’s “Les Enfants Terribles” is indeed a masterpiece that blurs the boundaries between different art forms. His unique recommendation to listen to “Make Believe” while reading the novel highlights the profound connection he felt between his prose and music.
As Cocteau himself passionately declared, “Art is a marriage of the conscious and the unconscious.” Your observation about the rhythms of the song in his prose brings this quote to life, showing how deeply intertwined his inspirations were.
Thomas