Narcissus

Narcissus

Book Summary

This bilingual edition gathers the fundamental texts that Paul Valéry, one of the great intellectuals of the 20th century, dedicated to the myth of Narcissus. Through poetic prose of exceptional lucidity, the French author explores the figure of the young man contemplating himself in the water, not as a simple symbol of vanity, but as the embodiment of a profound rebellion against a culture based on effort and control. Here, the reader will find a reflection on consciousness, beauty, and the possibility of a world freed from domination.

What is it about?

The book compiles various works by Paul Valéry centered on the mythological character of Narcissus. Far from the traditional moralizing interpretation, Valéry presents Narcissus as a figure who, along with Orpheus, symbolizes an alternative to the Western culture of effort, domination, and renunciation. For the author, the contemplation of Narcissus is not an act of selfishness, but the experience of a world that is not there to be controlled, but to be liberated and admired. The edition, translated and introduced by Pedro Gandía, allows the reader to access the depth of this thought in both its original French version and a careful Spanish translation.

Main themes

• The myth of Narcissus as a symbol of consciousness and self-perception.
• The rebellion against the culture of effort and domination.
• The relationship between contemplation and the liberation of the self.
• Poetry as a means of philosophical exploration.
• The parallel between the figures of Narcissus and Orpheus in Western culture.

Who is it recommended for?

This book is aimed at readers interested in philosophical poetry, classical mythology revisited from a contemporary perspective, and the work of Paul Valéry. It will also be of great value to those seeking a deep reflection on consciousness, beauty, and alternatives to the dominant values of productivity and control.

What this book offers

• An original and unconventional vision of the myth of Narcissus, far from the usual tropes.
• Access to fundamental texts by Paul Valéry, gathered for the first time in a bilingual edition.
• High-level philosophical reflection expressed through poetic prose of great beauty.
• The opportunity to read the original text in French alongside the Spanish translation.
• An invitation to question the culture of effort and explore new ways of relating to the world.

Technical specifications

• Author: Valéry, Paul
• Publisher: Hermida Editores S.L.
• Language: Spanish
• Subject: POETRY, POETRY BY INDIVIDUAL POETS
• Collection: DIOTIMA
• Binding: Paperback
• Publication date: May 2017
• Number of pages: 128
• Weight: 195 g

Editorial assessment

This edition of "Narcissus" is of great interest to the specialized reader, not only because of the literary and intellectual quality of Paul Valéry, but also because of the careful translation and compilation work by Pedro Gandía. The work offers a unique opportunity to delve into the thought of one of the most lucid poets and philosophers of the 20th century, through a myth that takes on a new and revealing dimension. Its pocket format and bilingual nature make it a valuable tool for both study and reflective reading.