 |
Alber CosseryA classic of Franco-Egyptian literature
Country:
 France |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Literary Beginnings and Journalism
- Parisian Life and Friendships
- Major Works
- Legacy and Translations
Early Life and Education
Albert Cosserywas born in Cairo in 1913 to a family of small landowners. At the age of 17, he moved to France to pursue his education. However, he was unable to complete his degree.
Literary Beginnings and Journalism
In France, Cossery immersed himself in journalism and literature. In 1940, he published his debut novel, "The Forgotten Men of God," which later received praise from Henry Miller.
Parisian Life and Friendships
From 1945 onwards, Cossery resided permanently in Paris, where he befriended renowned writers such as Albert Camus, Lawrence Durrell, and Jean Genet.
Major Works
Cossery's most significant novels include:- "The House of Certain Death" (1944)
- "Idlers in the Fertile Valley" (1948)
- "Beggars and Proud" (1955)
Themes and Style
Cossery's works explore the lives of the underclass in both Cairo and the Arab diaspora in Paris. They are infused with a bittersweet humor and a resilient optimism. He was often referred to as the "Voltaire of the Nile."
Legacy and Translations
Cossery's books have been translated into 15 languages, including Russian. The novel "Idlers in the Fertile Valley" was adapted into a film in 1978 by Greek director Nikos Panagiotopoulos, and the novels "Beggars and Proud" and "Violence and Mockery" were adapted by Egyptian director Asmaa el-Bakri.
