Arthur Rimbaud

Born in Charleville in 1854, Arthur Rimbaud showed extraordinary literary talent early and became one of the most startling new voices in French poetry while still in his teens. He wrote intensely for only a few years, but in that short time he produced works that would leave a lasting mark on modern poetry.

Rimbaud is especially remembered for his bold, visionary style and for major works such as A Season in Hell and Illuminations. His turbulent relationship with fellow poet Paul Verlaine has also become part of his legend, though the writing itself remains the heart of his reputation: restless, musical, and full of striking images.

Just as surprising as his rapid rise is his early silence. He largely gave up literature when he was still young and later traveled widely, eventually working as a trader in Africa. He died in 1891 at only thirty-seven, but his small body of work continued to inspire generations of poets, artists, and readers.