# René Char

> French poet (1907–1988)

**Wikidata**: [Q315015](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q315015)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/René_Char)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/rene-char

## Summary
René Char was a French poet (1907–1988) renowned for his contributions to lyric poetry and his role in the French literary scene. His works, deeply rooted in surrealism and existential themes, have left a lasting impact on modern poetry and cultural thought.

## Biography
- **Born**: June 14, 1907
- **Died**: February 19, 1988
- **Nationality**: French
- **Known for**: Writing poetry, particularly in the lyric and surrealist traditions
- **Field(s)**: Poetry, literature
- **Awards**: Officer of the Legion of Honour, included in *Le Monde's 100 Books of the Century*

## Contributions
René Char is celebrated for his poetic works, which often explore themes of resistance, nature, and human existence. His writing style, characterized by its intensity and lyrical depth, has influenced generations of poets and writers. Notable works include collections of lyric poetry that reflect his philosophical and emotional depth. Char's contributions to literature are recognized through his inclusion in prestigious lists such as *Le Monde's 100 Books of the Century*, highlighting his enduring influence on French and global literature.

## FAQs
**What type of poetry did René Char write?**
René Char is best known for his lyric poetry, which expresses intense thoughts and emotions. His work often blends surrealist imagery with profound reflections on human experience and nature.

**What awards did René Char receive?**
Char was honored as an Officer of the Legion of Honour, one of France's highest decorations. His work was also recognized in *Le Monde's 100 Books of the Century*, a testament to his literary significance.

**When did René Char live and work?**
René Char was born on June 14, 1907, and passed away on February 19, 1988. His active writing period spanned from the 1920s until his death, during which he produced a substantial body of poetic work.

## Why They Matter
René Char's poetry has had a profound impact on modern literature, particularly in the realms of surrealism and existential thought. His works are studied for their emotional depth and philosophical insights, influencing not only poets but also thinkers and artists across disciplines. Char's inclusion in *Le Monde's 100 Books of the Century* underscores his lasting relevance and the universal appeal of his themes.

## Notable For
- **Lyric Poetry**: Renowned for his intense and emotionally charged poetic works.
- **Officer of the Legion of Honour**: Recognized by the French government for his contributions to literature.
- **Inclusion in *Le Monde's 100 Books of the Century***: Acknowledged as one of the most significant literary figures of the 20th century.
- **Surrealist Influence**: His work is often associated with surrealist movements, blending dreamlike imagery with profound existential questions.

## Body
### Early Life and Background
René Émile Char was born on June 14, 1907, in France. His early life and education details are not extensively documented in the provided sources, but his literary career began in the 1920s, marking the start of his influential contributions to poetry.

### Literary Career
Char's career as a poet spanned several decades, during which he became a prominent figure in French literature. His works are primarily categorized under lyric poetry, known for their intense emotional expression and philosophical depth. He was associated with surrealist movements, which is evident in his use of vivid, often dreamlike imagery.

### Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Char received several accolades, including being named an Officer of the Legion of Honour, a prestigious French honor. His work was also featured in *Le Monde's 100 Books of the Century*, a list that highlights the most influential literary works of the 20th century.

### Influence and Legacy
René Char's influence extends beyond his lifetime, with his poetry continuing to inspire contemporary writers and poets. His exploration of themes such as resistance, nature, and human existence resonates with readers and scholars alike. Char's contributions to literature have cemented his place as a key figure in modern French poetry.

### Works and Publications
While specific titles of his works are not listed in the provided sources, Char's poetic output is known for its breadth and depth. His collections of lyric poetry are celebrated for their emotional intensity and philosophical insights, making them essential readings in the study of modern poetry.

### Personal Life
Details about Char's personal life, including his family and education, are not provided in the source material. However, his literary achievements and the recognition he received during his lifetime speak to his dedication and impact on the field of poetry.

### Death and Posthumous Recognition
René Char passed away on February 19, 1988. His legacy continues to be honored through various literary awards and inclusions in prestigious lists, ensuring that his contributions to poetry are remembered and celebrated.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Integrated Authority File
3. RKDartists
4. The Fine Art Archive
5. Journal officiel de la République française
6. International Standard Name Identifier
7. Virtual International Authority File
8. CiNii Research
9. MusicBrainz
10. [Source](https://patrinum.ch/record/173629)
11. [Source](https://www.patrinum.ch/record/174956)
12. [Source](https://calames.abes.fr/pub/bljd.aspx#details?id=FileId-266)
13. René Char. RKDartists
14. SNAC
15. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
16. Internet Speculative Fiction Database
17. Discogs
18. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
19. GeneaStar
20. Le Delarge
21. Roglo
22. Printemps des poètes
23. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
24. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
25. [Source](http://www.ubu.com/film/char.html)
26. nobelprize.org
27. CONOR.SI
28. Goodreads
29. Quora
30. LIBRIS. 2012
31. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
32. Regional Database of the Central Bohemian Research Library in Kladno
33. performing-arts.ch
34. Catalogo of the National Library of India