Émile Nelligan
Canadian poet celebrated for 'Chants d'Automne'

Born
December 24th, 1879
145 years ago
Died
November 18th, 1941
83 years ago — 61 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Canada
Links & References
A significant figure in Canadian literature, this poet emerged in the early 20th century. His work captured the essence of the Symbolist movement, influencing subsequent generations of writers. The poet's first collection, 'Les fleurs du mal' (1897), showcased a talent that would define his legacy. Suffering from mental illness, he spent a significant portion of his life in a psychiatric institution, which limited his output. Despite these challenges, his poetry resonated with readers and critics alike, often reflecting themes of solitude and existential angst. His style combined rich imagery with a deep emotional undercurrent, leaving a lasting imprint on the literary landscape of Quebec.
Published 'Chants d'Automne' in 1903
Pioneered Symbolist poetry in Canada
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