Albert Cohen
Albert Cohen was a Swiss novelist who wrote in French. Born on August 16, 1895, in Corfu, Greece, he later moved to Geneva, Switzerland. He is best known for his novel 'Belle du Seigneur', which is considered his masterpiece and won him the Grand Prix du roman de l'Académie française. Cohen's work often explored themes of Jewish identity and was influenced by his own experiences as a Jew in Europe. He passed away on October 17, 1981.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Belle du Seigneur
"Belle du Seigneur" is a tragic love story set in the 1930s, revolving around a high-ranking Jewish official who works for the League of Nations and his passionate affair with a married Swiss aristocrat. The narrative delves deep into their intense relationship, exploring themes of obsession, self-destruction, and existential despair, all set against the backdrop of the impending Second World War. The novel is also notable for its satirical portrayal of diplomatic life and its exploration of Jewish identity.
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2. Book Of My Mother
This poignant memoir serves as a tender homage to the author's late mother, exploring the depths of maternal love and the profound sense of loss following her passing. Through a series of reflective vignettes and personal recollections, the narrative delves into the complex relationship between mother and son, marked by both deep affection and the inevitable strains of growing independence. The author grapples with guilt and regret over his perceived shortcomings as a son, while celebrating the enduring impact of his mother's love and the indelible mark it left on his life. The work stands as a universal meditation on grief, memory, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
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3. Mangeclous
"Mangeclous" is a satirical novel that follows the misadventures of a group of Jewish friends from the Greek island of Cephalonia, who are bound by their shared dreams and follies. The central character, a cunning and comical figure known for his voracious appetite, leads his companions on a quixotic journey to 1930s Geneva with the aim of securing funds they believe are owed to them by a wealthy relative. Throughout their journey, the novel delves into themes of identity, exile, and the human condition, all while painting a humorous and poignant portrait of a community grappling with its place in the world amidst the rise of European anti-Semitism.
