6.2 André Breton's literary works
9 min read•august 21, 2024
André Breton, a key figure in Surrealism, shaped the movement through his literary works and manifestos. His writing explored mind, automatic techniques, and the merging of reality and imagination, revolutionizing 20th-century art and literature.
Breton's major works, including "" and "," challenged conventional narratives. His poetry collections and experimental texts pushed literary boundaries, while his political engagement and critical writings expanded Surrealism's influence beyond the artistic realm.
Early literary influences
- Surrealism and Dada movements emerged as radical artistic responses to societal upheaval in early 20th century Europe
- André Breton's early literary influences shaped the foundations of Surrealism, blending elements of and avant-garde experimentation
- These influences provided a framework for Breton to develop his unique approach to literature and art
Symbolist poetry impact
Top images from around the web for Symbolist poetry impact
Arthur Rimbaud - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
manifeste_du_surrealisme | 11 octobre 1924 : Publication du … | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Arthur Rimbaud - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
manifeste_du_surrealisme | 11 octobre 1924 : Publication du … | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
Top images from around the web for Symbolist poetry impact
Arthur Rimbaud - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
manifeste_du_surrealisme | 11 octobre 1924 : Publication du … | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
Arthur Rimbaud - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
manifeste_du_surrealisme | 11 octobre 1924 : Publication du … | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
- Symbolist poets (Rimbaud, Mallarmé, Baudelaire) inspired Breton's exploration of the subconscious mind
- Emphasis on dream-like imagery and non-linear narratives in Symbolist works influenced Surrealist writing techniques
- Breton adopted Symbolist ideas of using language to evoke emotions and sensations rather than direct representation
- Symbolist concept of the poet as a "seer" resonated with Breton's vision of the artist as a conduit for unconscious expression
Dada movement connections
- Breton's involvement with Dada in Paris exposed him to radical artistic experimentation and anti-establishment attitudes
- Dada's rejection of traditional artistic values aligned with Breton's desire to revolutionize literature and thought
- Collaborative nature of Dada projects influenced Breton's approach to group activities in Surrealism
- Breton incorporated Dada techniques (, chance operations) into early Surrealist practices
- Divergence from Dada's nihilism led Breton to develop Surrealism as a more constructive artistic philosophy
Manifestos of Surrealism
- Breton's manifestos served as foundational texts for the Surrealist movement, outlining its principles and goals
- These documents evolved over time, reflecting changes in Breton's thinking and the movement's direction
- The manifestos established Surrealism as a distinct artistic and philosophical approach, separate from Dada and other avant-garde movements
First Manifesto key points
- Published in 1924, marking the official birth of Surrealism as a movement
- Defined Surrealism as "" aimed at expressing thought free from reason and aesthetic concerns
- Emphasized the importance of dreams and the unconscious mind in artistic creation
- Criticized rationalism and called for a revolution in human experience
- Included examples of Surrealist texts and explanations of techniques
- Listed influential predecessors (Lautréamont, Rimbaud) as "Surrealists in something"
Second Manifesto themes
- Released in 1929, addressing internal conflicts within the Surrealist group
- Reaffirmed commitment to revolutionary politics and alignment with Marxism
- Criticized former members who had diverged from Surrealist principles
- Explored occult and alchemical themes as metaphors for Surrealist transformation
- Emphasized the need for "profound and real occultation of Surrealism"
- Discussed the concept of "" as a guiding principle in Surrealist practice
Evolution of surrealist ideas
- Shift from pure to more structured exploration of the unconscious
- Increased focus on political engagement and social revolution over time
- Integration of scientific concepts (relativity, quantum mechanics) into Surrealist thought
- Development of Surrealist objects and visual art techniques alongside literary practices
- Exploration of love and desire as central themes in later Surrealist works
- Incorporation of non-Western cultural influences and interest in myth and magic
Automatic writing technique
- Automatic writing formed the cornerstone of Surrealist literary practice, aiming to access the unconscious mind
- This technique challenged traditional notions of authorship and literary creation
- Breton's development and promotion of automatic writing significantly influenced modern poetry and prose
Origins and development
- Inspired by Freudian psychoanalysis and the practice of free association
- Breton and Philippe Soupault experimented with automatic writing in 1919
- Technique involved writing rapidly without censorship or conscious control
- Aimed to bypass rational thought and tap into the "true functioning of thought"
- Evolved from pure stream-of-consciousness to include more structured approaches
- Breton refined the method through practice and theoretical writings over time
Examples in Breton's work
- "" (1920) co-written with Soupault, considered the first Surrealist text
- "" (1924) included as part of the first Surrealist Manifesto
- "" (1933) essay exploring the philosophical implications of automatism
- "L'Amour fou" (1937) incorporated automatic writing into a more structured narrative
- "" (1940) poem combining automatic writing with political themes
- " 17" (1945) integrated automatic passages with esoteric symbolism and personal reflections
Major prose works
- Breton's major prose works represent the evolution of Surrealist literature beyond pure automatism
- These texts blend elements of autobiography, fiction, and philosophical exploration
- Breton's prose works challenged conventional narrative structures and literary genres
Nadja: structure and themes
- Published in 1928, considered one of Breton's most influential works
- Semi-autobiographical account of Breton's relationship with a woman named Nadja
- Explores themes of madness, love, and the blurring of reality and imagination
- Incorporates photographs and drawings, creating a multimedia narrative experience
- Utilizes non-linear structure and fragmented narrative to reflect Surrealist principles
- Examines the concept of "convulsive beauty" and chance encounters in urban settings
L'Amour fou: love and chance
- Published in 1937, further developing ideas from Nadja
- Explores the concept of "mad love" as a revolutionary force in human experience
- Incorporates elements of automatic writing within a more structured narrative framework
- Examines the role of objective chance in romantic encounters and everyday life
- Includes reflections on Breton's marriage to Jacqueline Lamba and the birth of their daughter
- Integrates Surrealist interpretations of dreams and premonitions into the narrative
Arcane 17: esoteric symbolism
- Written in 1944 during Breton's exile in North America
- Combines personal reflections with esoteric and alchemical symbolism
- Explores themes of rebirth and transformation in the context of World War II
- Incorporates references to the Tarot, particularly the 17th card, The Star
- Examines the role of women and feminine principles in Surrealist thought
- Reflects Breton's interest in Native American culture and mythology
Poetry collections
- Breton's poetry collections showcase the evolution of his poetic style and Surrealist techniques
- These works demonstrate the application of Surrealist principles to lyric poetry
- Breton's poetry influenced subsequent generations of avant-garde writers and artists
Mont de Piété
- Published in 1919, Breton's first poetry collection
- Reflects transition from Symbolist influences to early Surrealist experimentation
- Includes poems written during Breton's military service in World War I
- Explores themes of disillusionment and the search for new modes of expression
- Demonstrates early use of juxtaposition and non-sequitur in poetic language
- Contains seeds of automatic writing techniques developed in later works
Clair de Terre
- Released in 1923, showcasing more developed Surrealist poetic techniques
- Incorporates elements of automatic writing and
- Explores themes of love, desire, and the unconscious mind
- Includes the poem "The Free Union," a seminal work of Surrealist poetry
- Demonstrates Breton's use of startling metaphors and unexpected associations
- Reflects influence of Dada in its playful approach to language and meaning
Le Revolver à cheveux blancs
- Published in 1932, representing a mature phase of Breton's poetic output
- Combines political engagement with Surrealist imagery and techniques
- Explores themes of revolution, both personal and social
- Incorporates elements of and absurdism
- Demonstrates Breton's evolving interest in the relationship between poetry and visual art
- Includes poems that reflect on the Surrealist movement and its place in society
Experimental narratives
- Breton's experimental narratives pushed the boundaries of traditional literary forms
- These works exemplify the Surrealist goal of merging reality and imagination
- Breton's experiments influenced the development of avant-garde literature in the 20th century
Les Champs magnétiques
- Co-written with Philippe Soupault in 1919, considered the first Surrealist text
- Utilized automatic writing technique to produce a collaborative work
- Consists of a series of prose poems and fragmentary texts
- Explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the nature of creativity
- Demonstrates the potential of automatism to generate unexpected literary effects
- Served as a model for subsequent Surrealist collaborative writing projects
Poisson soluble
- Published in 1924 as part of the first Surrealist Manifesto
- Collection of 32 automatic texts showcasing pure Surrealist writing
- Explores the boundaries between poetry and prose through experimental forms
- Incorporates dream imagery, free association, and non-linear narratives
- Demonstrates Breton's concept of "Surrealist imagery" in literary practice
- Serves as a practical example of the principles outlined in the Manifesto
Political engagement
- Breton's political engagement was integral to his vision of Surrealism as a revolutionary movement
- His political activities influenced the direction of Surrealism and its relationship to other avant-garde groups
- Breton's political writings and actions remain controversial aspects of his legacy
Communism vs Surrealism
- Breton joined the French Communist Party in 1927, seeking to align Surrealism with political revolution
- Tensions arose between Surrealist artistic freedom and Communist Party discipline
- Breton criticized Stalinist policies and Soviet socialist realism in art
- Expelled from the Communist Party in 1933 due to ideological differences
- Continued to advocate for a synthesis of artistic and political revolution
- Explored alternative leftist ideologies () while maintaining Surrealist principles
Trotsky collaboration
- Breton met Leon Trotsky in Mexico in 1938, facilitated by Diego Rivera
- Co-authored "Manifesto for an Independent Revolutionary Art" with Trotsky
- Advocated for complete freedom of artistic expression in revolutionary politics
- Criticized both capitalist and Stalinist restrictions on artistic freedom
- Established the International Federation of Independent Revolutionary Art (FIARI)
- Influenced Breton's later writings on the relationship between art and politics
Literary criticism
- Breton's literary criticism expanded the scope of Surrealist theory beyond poetry and prose
- His critical works helped establish Surrealism as a comprehensive worldview
- Breton's criticism influenced the reception and interpretation of various artists and writers
Anthology of Black Humor
- Published in 1940, presenting Breton's concept of "black humor" in literature
- Compiled texts from various authors (Swift, Kafka, Jarry) exemplifying Surrealist humor
- Explored the subversive potential of humor in challenging social norms
- Introduced lesser-known writers to a wider audience through Surrealist lens
- Examined the relationship between humor, the unconscious, and social critique
- Influenced subsequent developments in absurdist and avant-garde literature
Surrealism and painting
- Published in 1928, exploring the application of Surrealist principles to visual art
- Analyzed works by painters (Ernst, Tanguy, Magritte) from a Surrealist perspective
- Developed concept of "pure psychic automatism" in relation to visual creation
- Explored the role of dreams and the unconscious in generating visual imagery
- Examined the relationship between text and image in Surrealist art
- Influenced the development of Surrealist art criticism and theory
Legacy and influence
- Breton's work and ideas continue to shape contemporary art and literature
- His legacy extends beyond Surrealism to influence various cultural and intellectual movements
- Debates about Breton's role and the relevance of Surrealism persist in modern criticism
Impact on modern literature
- Influenced development of automatic writing and stream-of-consciousness techniques
- Inspired experimental narrative forms in postmodern and contemporary fiction
- Contributed to the breakdown of genre boundaries between poetry and prose
- Encouraged exploration of dreams and the unconscious in literary creation
- Influenced Beat Generation writers (Ginsberg, Burroughs) and their approach to spontaneous composition
- Impacted development of magical realism in Latin American literature
Breton's role in art history
- Established Surrealism as a major avant-garde movement of the 20th century
- Influenced development of abstract expressionism and other post-war art movements
- Contributed to the integration of psychoanalytic concepts into art theory and criticism
- Promoted interdisciplinary approach to creativity, merging literature, visual art, and philosophy
- Challenged traditional notions of authorship and artistic genius
- Continues to be debated in discussions of modernism, postmodernism, and contemporary art practices
Key Terms to Review (31)
Anti-art: Anti-art is a movement that challenges and subverts traditional definitions and conventions of art, promoting the idea that anything can be considered art, particularly if it provokes thought or reaction. This concept emerged prominently in the early 20th century, especially during World War I, as artists sought to reject established norms and critique societal values through absurdity, irrationality, and playful disobedience.
Arcane: The term 'arcane' refers to something that is understood by only a few, often relating to knowledge that is mysterious or secretive in nature. This idea connects to the works of André Breton and the Surrealist Manifesto, where hidden meanings and the subconscious are emphasized. Additionally, in Breton's literary works, the arcane often represents the exploration of surreal landscapes and ideas that challenge conventional understanding.
Automatic writing: Automatic writing is a technique in which a person writes without conscious thought, allowing their subconscious mind to express itself freely. This practice was crucial for Surrealist artists and writers who sought to bypass rationality and access deeper layers of creativity, connecting to the realms of the unconscious and dreams.
Automatism: Automatism is a technique used in art and literature that emphasizes spontaneous creation, allowing artists and writers to express their subconscious thoughts without the constraints of rational thought or premeditated intent. This approach is foundational in both Dada and Surrealist movements, as it seeks to tap into the unconscious mind to produce works that defy conventional logic and form.
Black humor: Black humor is a style of comedic expression that finds humor in subjects that are generally considered serious, taboo, or distressing, often addressing themes like death, suffering, and existential despair. This type of humor allows for a cathartic release, providing a way to confront uncomfortable truths and the absurdities of life. It plays a crucial role in artistic movements like Surrealism and Dada, where traditional norms are challenged and the darker aspects of the human experience are explored.
Clair de terre: Clair de terre is a term that translates to 'light of the earth' and refers to a specific kind of poetic imagery or style that captures the essence of the earthly experience and the subconscious. This concept is pivotal in André Breton's literary works, where it serves to explore the surreal relationship between the mind and nature, highlighting the interconnectedness of reality and dreams.
Collage: Collage is an artistic technique that involves assembling different materials, such as paper, photographs, fabric, and other found objects, to create a new composition. This method allows artists to challenge traditional artistic boundaries and explore innovative forms of expression, making it a significant part of movements like Dada and Surrealism.
Dream imagery: Dream imagery refers to the vivid, often surreal mental images and scenes experienced during dreams, which evoke emotional responses and challenge the boundaries of reality. This concept is central to the Surrealist movement, influencing artists and writers to explore the unconscious mind and embrace the irrational as a way to access deeper truths.
Fata morgana: A fata morgana is a complex form of superior mirage that occurs when layers of air at different temperatures bend light rays, creating distorted images of objects that appear above the horizon. This phenomenon is often linked to themes of illusion and transformation, which resonate deeply in both the Surrealist movement and André Breton's literary works, emphasizing the interplay between reality and the subconscious.
Interwar Period: The interwar period refers to the time between World War I and World War II, roughly from 1918 to 1939. This era was marked by significant political, social, and artistic movements, as well as the rise of various ideologies, setting the stage for the subsequent global conflict. In the context of art movements, it became a fertile ground for both Dada and Surrealism, as artists sought to challenge conventions and express the absurdity of modern life.
Irrationality: Irrationality refers to the state of being illogical or lacking reason, often embraced in art and literature to express the subconscious mind's chaotic nature. It became a central theme in various movements that sought to challenge traditional norms and conventions, highlighting the absurd and the illogical aspects of human experience.
L'amour fou: L'amour fou, meaning 'mad love' in French, is a concept that encapsulates the intense, irrational passion often portrayed in Surrealist art and literature. It emphasizes the transformative and liberating power of love, which can lead to profound artistic expression and exploration of the subconscious. This concept is significant in the works of André Breton, as it connects deeply with the ideas presented in his manifesto and permeates his literary creations.
Le revolver à cheveux blancs: Le revolver à cheveux blancs is a surrealist literary term coined by André Breton, symbolizing the tension between desire and death, encapsulated in the imagery of a white-haired revolver. This term reflects the broader themes of Surrealism, where everyday objects are imbued with deeper psychological meanings and evoke a sense of mystery and enigma. In Breton's works, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the juxtaposition of beauty and violence, challenging readers to explore the complexities of the human psyche.
Le surréalisme et la peinture: Le surréalisme et la peinture refers to the artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century, focusing on expressing the unconscious mind through dream-like imagery and unexpected juxtapositions. This movement was deeply influenced by Freudian theories of the subconscious, aiming to challenge traditional artistic norms and explore new realms of creativity. Surrealist painters sought to depict the irrational and fantastical, creating works that often defy logical interpretation.
Les champs magnétiques: Les champs magnétiques refers to the concept of 'magnetic fields' in the realm of Surrealism, used by André Breton as a metaphor for the unpredictable and chaotic forces of the unconscious mind. This idea is crucial in understanding how surrealists sought to tap into deeper emotional and psychological experiences, often contrasting rational thought with a more instinctual and dream-like approach to art and literature.
Manifesto of surrealism: The manifesto of surrealism is a foundational text authored by André Breton that outlines the principles and goals of the Surrealist movement, emphasizing the importance of the unconscious, dreams, and the liberation of thought from rational constraints. This manifesto not only serves as a declaration of Surrealism's artistic and literary aims but also connects deeply with psychological theories and broader cultural contexts.
Marcel Duchamp: Marcel Duchamp was a French-American artist known for his pivotal role in the development of Dada and conceptual art. His innovative approach challenged traditional notions of art, particularly through his use of ready-mades, which were ordinary objects presented as art. Duchamp's ideas and works had a profound impact on various art movements, shaping the direction of modern art in the wake of World War I and influencing the transition to Surrealism.
Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unrelated things, suggesting that one is the other to highlight similarities or qualities. This literary device is crucial in conveying deeper meanings and emotions, often enhancing the imagery and thematic elements in writing. In the context of certain literary works, metaphors can reveal the subconscious mind's complexities, capturing the essence of surrealism and challenging conventional perceptions.
Mont de piété: Mont de piété refers to charitable pawnshops established in Europe, particularly during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, aimed at providing low-interest loans to the needy. These institutions played a significant role in socio-economic contexts, as they were seen as alternatives to usurious moneylenders, thus fostering a culture of economic support and social welfare.
Nadja: Nadja is a semi-autobiographical novel by André Breton that blends elements of surrealism and existentialism. The narrative follows the author's encounters with a mysterious woman named Nadja, symbolizing the connection between love, madness, and creativity. This work illustrates the themes of nihilism, the exploration of the unconscious mind, and the importance of dreams, making it a cornerstone in understanding both Breton's literary contributions and surrealist ideals.
Nonsense: Nonsense refers to language, ideas, or actions that lack meaning or logical coherence. In the context of artistic movements like Dada and Surrealism, it represents a rejection of traditional norms and conventions, embracing absurdity and chaos as a means of expression. This focus on nonsense reflects a desire to challenge rational thought and societal structures through playful experimentation and unconventional forms.
Objective chance: Objective chance refers to the role of randomness or unpredictability in the creation and interpretation of art, particularly in the context of Surrealism. This concept emphasizes the idea that not everything can be meticulously controlled or planned, allowing for spontaneous and unexpected elements to emerge in artistic expression. In the literary works of André Breton, objective chance serves as a catalyst for creativity, encouraging the breaking away from traditional structures and narratives.
Poisson soluble: Poisson soluble refers to a type of literary expression characterized by fluidity and transformation, often found in the works of André Breton. It captures the essence of Surrealism, where meaning and interpretation can shift dramatically, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the subconscious mind and the dynamic interplay of dreams and reality.
Pure psychic automatism: Pure psychic automatism is a technique in art and literature that aims to express the unconscious mind by allowing thoughts and images to flow freely without rational control or censorship. This practice is intended to tap into deeper emotions and surreal experiences, breaking away from conventional forms and styles. It is closely related to automatic writing, literary works that embody this principle, and the psychological method of free association.
Salvador Dalí: Salvador Dalí was a prominent Spanish surrealist artist known for his bizarre and dreamlike imagery, exceptional technical skill, and flamboyant personality. His work often incorporated themes of subconscious exploration, unexpected juxtapositions, and meticulous attention to detail, making him a central figure in the surrealist movement and influencing various forms of art and culture.
Surrealist Exhibition 1925: The Surrealist Exhibition of 1925 was a significant event organized in Paris that showcased the works of various surrealist artists and aimed to promote the movement's ideals. This exhibition not only featured visual art but also incorporated literary contributions, making it a key moment for the surrealist manifesto established by André Breton. It played a crucial role in defining surrealism as an influential cultural movement that combined visual arts with literature and challenged conventional perceptions of reality.
Symbolism: Symbolism refers to the use of symbols to represent ideas, emotions, or concepts beyond their literal meaning. In the context of Surrealism, symbolism becomes a crucial element as artists and writers aim to express the unconscious mind, dreams, and deeper truths that defy rational explanation. This form of expression is deeply connected to various aspects of artistic and literary movements, exploring themes of the human psyche and the complexities of reality.
The automatic message: The automatic message refers to a literary technique employed primarily by André Breton and other Surrealists, where writers tap into their subconscious to create spontaneous, unedited expressions of thought. This method aims to bypass rational control and allow the writer's inner voice to emerge freely, resulting in unexpected imagery and associations that challenge conventional narrative forms.
The unconscious: The unconscious refers to the part of the mind that is not accessible to conscious awareness but influences thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This concept plays a crucial role in understanding the hidden motivations behind creativity and artistic expression, particularly in movements like Surrealism and Dada, where artists sought to tap into the irrational and dream-like aspects of human experience.
Trotskyism: Trotskyism is a Marxist ideology based on the ideas of Leon Trotsky, which advocates for the theory of permanent revolution and critiques the bureaucratic degeneration of the Soviet state under Joseph Stalin. This ideology emphasizes the need for an international revolution and opposes the idea of socialism in one country, arguing that true socialism can only be achieved through a worldwide workers' uprising.
World War I Impact: The impact of World War I refers to the profound effects the war had on art, culture, and society, particularly in the context of the disillusionment and radical questioning of traditional values that emerged from the devastation and trauma of the conflict. This environment fostered new artistic movements such as Dada and Surrealism, which rejected previous norms and sought to express the chaotic realities of a post-war world.