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A free mind haunted by the notion of the absolute, Pierre Emmanuel (1916-1984) is one of the greatest French poets of the 20th century. His work reflects both his mystic quest and his engagement in the world. Champion of the Resistance, militant for freedom and culture and member of the French Academy, this public figure was nevertheless an outsider, a convinced yet tormented Christian, the author of work that cannot be categorized. From 'Elégies' to 'Grand oeuvre', from 'Tombeau d'Orphée' to 'Babel' or 'Evangéliaire', his poetry defends man and his spiritual destiny with passion. This first book on Pierre Emmanuel retraces the path of an inspired rebel. To him, the poet 'puts his life into his words and his words into his life'."