Maupassant Quotes

A collection of quotes by Maupassant.

Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893) was a renowned French writer and one of the masters of the short story genre. Born in Normandy, France, he grew up in a literary environment as the eldest son of a prosperous family. Maupassant began his career as a civil servant in Paris, which allowed him to immerse himself in the cultural and intellectual life of the city.

Maupassant's prodigious writing talent was recognized early on, and he quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the literary circles of his time. Employing a realist and naturalist style, he is best known for his poignant and vividly descriptive short stories depicting the lives of ordinary people. His works often explore human psychology, the complexities of relationships, and the influence of social class on individuals.

With an impressive output of over 300 short stories, Maupassant's writing remains highly influential and is celebrated for its craftsmanship and depth. Some of his most famous stories include "The Necklace," "Boule de Suif," and "Bel Ami." Maupassant's novels, including "Pierre and Jean" and "Une vie," also garnered significant acclaim.

Despite his literary success, Maupassant's personal life was marked by struggles with mental illness. He suffered from syphilis, which eventually led to his tragic decline. In 1893, at the age of 42, Maupassant tragically took his own life by cutting his throat. He left behind a rich literary legacy, firmly establishing himself as one of the most important figures in French literature.