Renée Vivien
Renée Vivien, born Pauline Mary Tarn on June 8, 1877, in London, was a notable poet recognized for her contributions to literature during the early 20th century. After moving to Paris shortly after her birth, Vivien was influenced by her diverse cultural background, with an English father and an American mother. Her literary journey began with a deep appreciation for French literature, particularly the works of Charles Baudelaire. A significant relationship with the American writer Natalie Barney introduced her to the Greek poet Sappho, inspiring Vivien's own poetic voice.
Vivien published her first poetry collection, "Études et préludes," in 1901, followed by several other works, including "Cendres et poussières" in 1902, which she dedicated to her love, Hélène de Zuylen. Throughout her brief life, she produced approximately two dozen volumes, noted for their exploration of feminine themes. However, her struggles with anxiety and alcoholism led to her untimely death on November 18, 1909, from starvation due to anorexia. Renée Vivien's legacy serves as both a celebration of her artistic achievements and a poignant reminder of the personal challenges she faced.
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Renée Vivien
Poet
- Born: June 8, 1877
- Birthplace: London, England
- Died: November 18, 1909
- Place of death: Paris, France
Biography
Renée Vivien was born Pauline Mary Tarn on June 8, 1877, in London, England. Her father, John Tern, was English. Her mother, Mary Gillot Bennett, was American. Shortly after her birth, she moved with her parents to Paris, France. The family lived alternately in London and Paris. Her father died when she was nine, and her relationship with her mother proved disappointing. Vivien grew up reading French literature; she was especially appreciative of the poet Charles Baudelaire. She also played the piano.
In 1899, Vivien met Natalie Barney, the American writer, in Paris. The two had a short relationship during which time Barney introduced Vivien to the Greek poet Sappho. Vivien’s first collection of poetry, Études et préludes, was published in 1901. The revised edition of this volume was published two years later. In 1902, she published a collection of formal metrical poetry, Cendres et poussières (ashes and dusts). She dedicated this volume, and every collection of poetry published through 1907, to her new love, Hélène de Zuylen. In 1903, Vivien published a translation of Sappho into both French and English. Plagued by anxiety and suffering from alcholism, Vivien died November 18, 1909, from starvation, an effect of her anorexia.
Renée Vivien was a prolific writer, producing approximately two dozen volumes within a decade. Her work is noted for its feminine sensitivities. Nevertheless, her short life remains a cautionary tale about the effects of self- destructive habits.