The George Sand Gustave-Flaubert Letters

The complete correspondences between two of 19th century France's most distinguished authors is published here with the superb translation to English by A. L. McKenzie.

Written over the course of years by the literary pen pals, these letters provide unique insight into everyday life as experienced by two of France's most acclaimed literary figures. We see a great friendship ensue, with the pair sharing in-jokes and nicknames, and offering one another news of events and day-to-day life. Moreover, all of their writings are imbued with the literary talents and flair for spirited nuance possessed by both Flaubert and Sand.

The pair were penpals for a total of twelve years, with their correspondence taking place when both were in middle age. Sand, previously reputed for a passionate if wayward youth is by now a mellowed woman, whilst Flaubert - despite being seventeen years Sand's junior - is already himself a shy and somewhat reclusive veteran author aged forty.

Together with the pleasant matters of friendship and their shared profession, these letters contain much reference to the-then ensuing Franco-Prussian war. Despite such adversities, and their differences in literary style and fundamental beliefs, the pair maintained their great and abiding friendship - today, their letters make for lively general reading for any enthusiast or student of classic literature.