The Greatest French, British "Fiction, Poetry" Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fiction

Poetry

Poetry is a genre of literature that uses language to evoke emotion, paint vivid imagery, and convey complex ideas through the use of rhythm, meter, and sound. It is characterized by its use of figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, and its ability to capture the essence of a moment or experience in a concise and powerful way. Poetry can take many forms, including sonnets, haikus, free verse, and spoken word, and can cover a wide range of topics, from love and nature to politics and social issues. As a category for books, poetry offers readers a unique and intimate glimpse into the human experience, inviting them to explore the beauty and complexity of language and the world around them.

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  1. 1. The Waste Land by T. S. Eliot

    "The Waste Land" is a long poem that presents a bleak and despairing view of the world following the devastation of World War I. The poem is divided into five parts and uses a wide range of literary and cultural references, as well as multiple narrators, to depict a world in ruins. It explores themes of disillusionment, despair, and the decline of civilization, and is often considered a seminal work of modernist literature.

    The 198th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Prufrock and Other Observations by T. S. Eliot

    This collection of poems presents a critique of society through the lens of a disillusioned modern man. The titular character is a middle-aged man contemplating the emptiness and lack of fulfillment in his life. The poems delve into themes of despair, regret, and existential angst, reflecting the disillusionment of the post-World War I generation. The poems are characterized by their innovative use of dramatic monologue, stream of consciousness, and other modernist techniques.

    The 914th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Alcools by Guillaume Apollinaire

    "Alcools" is a collection of poems that explores various themes such as love, loss, and the passage of time. The work is notable for its innovative use of form and syntax, often eschewing traditional punctuation and capitalization. The poems are rich in imagery and symbolism, drawing on a wide range of influences from mythology to modern urban life. The collection is considered a landmark of modernist literature, reflecting the author's unique vision and distinctive poetic voice.

    The 1246th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. In Parenthesis by David Jones

    In Parenthesis is a semi-autobiographical novel set during World War I, focusing on the experiences of a British infantryman from his enlistment to his injury in the Battle of the Somme. The narrative combines prose and poetry to depict the harsh realities of war, including the camaraderie between soldiers and the chaos and horror of battle. The novel is noted for its detailed and realistic portrayal of trench warfare and its exploration of the psychological impact of war on soldiers.

    The 1981st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Arcanum 17 by André Breton

    "Arcanum 17" is a surrealist exploration of love, loss, and resurrection set amidst the backdrop of World War II. Drawing inspiration from the legend of Melusina, the author uses the symbolism of this mythic figure to discuss the role of women in society and the destructive nature of war. The narrative also delves into themes of renewal, rebirth, and the power of the feminine, all while using the surrealist style to blend reality and dream in a poetic and philosophical discourse.

    The 2443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Complete Writings of Alfred de Musset by Alfred de Musset

    This comprehensive collection encompasses the entire body of work by a renowned French dramatist, poet, and novelist. The book includes his most famous plays, lyrical poetry, and novels, all of which are characterized by romantic themes and a deep exploration of human emotions. His writings, often autobiographical, offer a vivid portrayal of the 19th century French society, its morals, and its decadence. The author's keen observations, wit, and mastery of language make his works enduring classics of French literature.

    The 3060th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight by Simon Armitage

    The book is a modern translation of a 14th century alliterative poem, which tells the story of Sir Gawain, a knight of King Arthur's Round Table. The story begins when a mysterious Green Knight arrives at Arthur's court, challenging the knights to a beheading game. Gawain accepts the challenge and beheads the Green Knight, who surprisingly survives and tells Gawain to seek him out a year later to return the blow. The book follows Gawain's journey, filled with trials and temptations, as he tries to fulfill his promise to the Green Knight, maintaining his honor and chivalry.

    The 3063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Calligrammes by Guillaume Apollinaire

    "Calligrammes" is a collection of free verse poetry and typographical experiments by a French poet. The poems are noted for their use of complex visual layouts and playful language, which often incorporate elements of surrealism and cubism. The collection is also notable for its exploration of various themes, including love, war, and the passage of time. The title of the collection refers to the poet's use of words and phrases to create a visual image, or calligram, on the page.

    The 3085th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The Emperor's Babe by Bernardine Evaristo

    This novel tells the story of a young Sudanese girl, Zuleika, who is married off at the age of 11 to a rich, older Roman businessman in Londinium, 211 AD. Despite the luxuries her marriage affords her, Zuleika feels trapped and yearns for real love and freedom. The narrative takes a turn when she meets and falls in love with the Roman Emperor, a relationship that brings her joy but also puts her in grave danger. The book is a vivid portrayal of ancient Rome, with its mix of cultures, and explores themes of love, freedom, and the struggles of a woman in a patriarchal society.

    The 4038th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Complete Nonsense by Edward Lear

    This book is a delightful collection of whimsical and absurd poetry and prose, celebrated for its nonsensical nature and playful language. It includes the author's most famous poem, which features an unlikely pairing of two creatures who set out to sea in a beautiful pea-green boat. The compilation is filled with fantastical characters, from the Jumblies to the Quangle Wangle, and showcases the author's unique talent for inventing quirky, fantastical worlds. The limericks, stories, and drawings within this volume have entertained both children and adults for generations, cementing its place as a classic in the genre of literary nonsense.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Things by Francis Ponge

    The book is a collection of prose poetry that delves into the essence and nature of everyday objects. Through meticulous and often philosophical descriptions, the author elevates the mundane to the level of art, inviting readers to reconsider the significance of the ordinary. Each piece serves as a meditation on the material world, exploring the intricate relationship between language and the physical entities it seeks to describe. The work challenges the boundaries between poetry and prose, ultimately offering a unique reflection on the way we perceive and interact with the "things" that populate our lives.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The Mystery Of The Charity Of Joan Of Arc by Charles Péguy

    The book in question is a lyrical and philosophical meditation on the life and legacy of Joan of Arc, focusing particularly on her acts of charity and humility. Through a blend of poetry and prose, the narrative delves into the spiritual and moral dimensions of Joan's character, exploring the paradoxes of her saintliness and her role as a warrior. The work reflects on the nature of faith, the virtue of charity, and the profound impact Joan of Arc has had on French national identity and Catholic spirituality. It is a contemplative homage to a historical figure that transcends the boundaries of time, inviting readers to ponder the deeper meanings of heroism and sanctity.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Poems Of Bejamin Péret by Bejamin Péret

    The collection "Poems of Benjamin Péret" offers a journey through the imaginative and often surreal landscape of one of the most original voices of the 20th-century avant-garde. Péret, a prominent figure in the Surrealist movement, weaves together dreamlike imagery, revolutionary fervor, and a playful yet biting wit to challenge conventional norms and explore the depths of the subconscious. His poetry is characterized by a free-flowing style that breaks from traditional forms, reflecting his commitment to artistic and personal liberty. This anthology captures the essence of Péret's work, showcasing his contributions to literature and his enduring influence on the realm of poetic expression.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Complete Verse by Rudyard Kipling

    This comprehensive collection brings together the entire range of verse from a celebrated British author, known for his deep engagement with the British Empire and its complexities. The anthology showcases a variety of poetic forms and themes, from the author's early, vivid ballads of imperial life, to his later, more reflective poetry. It includes his most famous works that have entered the public consciousness for their rousing rhythms and memorable lines, as well as lesser-known poems that reveal a more intimate and contemplative side of the poet. The collection is a testament to the author's versatility and enduring impact on English literature, offering insights into the cultural attitudes of his time while also exploring universal themes of adventure, courage, and identity.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Collected Poems by Walter de la Mare

    This anthology brings together a rich tapestry of verse from a distinguished poet known for his evocative imagery, musical language, and psychological depth. The collection spans a wide range of themes, from the innocence of childhood to the mysteries of the supernatural. The poet's work is characterized by a contemplative and often dreamlike quality, inviting readers to explore the interplay between reality and imagination. With a delicate touch, the poems delve into the human experience, capturing moments of introspection, wonder, and the profound complexities of life and nature.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Anathemata by David Jones

    "The Anathemata" is a dense and complex long poem that delves into the rich tapestry of Western culture, drawing from history, mythology, religion, and personal experience to explore themes of faith, art, and identity. The work is structured as a series of ritualistic and symbolic meditations, blending the author's deep knowledge of Catholic liturgy with references to a wide array of sources, from ancient Celtic lore to the rituals of the Roman Empire. Through its lyrical and often fragmented narrative, the poem seeks to unearth the sacred within the profane and to articulate the interconnectedness of human experience across time and space.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Selected Writings by Jules Laforgue

    "Selected Writings" is a compilation of works by a pioneering French symbolist poet, known for his innovative use of free verse and a conversational tone that broke from the formal traditions of 19th-century French poetry. The collection showcases the author's melancholic and ironic style, blending a sense of personal disillusionment with a detached observation of society. His poems often reflect on themes of ennui, existential despair, and the absurdity of life, while also experimenting with language and poetic form. This anthology serves as a testament to the poet's influence on modernist literature and his role in shaping the direction of modern poetry.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Complete Works by Lewis Carroll

    The book is a comprehensive collection of the imaginative and whimsical works of a renowned 19th-century British author, best known for his iconic children's literature. It includes his famous tales of a young girl's surreal adventures in a fantastical land after falling down a rabbit hole, as well as the sequel that takes her through a looking-glass world where everything is reversed. The compilation also features a range of the author's poetry, including nonsense verses filled with wordplay and logic puzzles, as well as other novels, essays, and miscellaneous writings that showcase his talent for satire, logic, and fantasy.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Selected Works by Alfred Jarry

    "Selected Works" by Alfred Jarry is a compilation of the most significant writings from a French author known for his pioneering work in the Absurdist and Surrealist movements. The collection showcases a range of Jarry's literary output, including plays, essays, and novels, with his most famous character, Père Ubu, often taking center stage. Jarry's work is characterized by its satirical edge, inventive language, and the subversion of traditional literary forms. His influence extends beyond literature into the realms of theatre and the visual arts, where his ideas have continued to resonate with avant-garde movements throughout the 20th century and beyond.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Poems Of André Breton by André Breton

    This collection is a compilation of works by a seminal figure in the surrealist movement, showcasing a series of poems that delve into the depths of the unconscious mind. The poems are characterized by their dreamlike imagery, unexpected juxtapositions, and free association, reflecting the author's revolutionary approach to literature. Through his verse, the poet seeks to liberate thought from rational constraints and explore the vast possibilities of human imagination, often blurring the lines between reality and dream, sanity and madness, in a quest to capture the essence of surrealist philosophy.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Anabasis by Saint-John Perse

    "Anabasis" is a lyrical epic poem that explores the journey of human consciousness and civilization through the metaphor of an expedition across vast and varied landscapes. The narrative, rich in imagery and symbolism, follows a group of unnamed travelers as they embark on a quest that leads them through deserts, cities, and spiritual realms. The poem delves into themes of exile, discovery, and the quest for meaning, blending the personal with the universal in a tapestry of language that seeks to capture the essence of human experience and the relentless pursuit of progress and enlightenment.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Rapture by Carol Ann Duffy

    "Rapture" is a collection of love poems that explore the highs and lows of passionate love. The poems are deeply emotional and personal, capturing the intensity of love, the pain of heartbreak, and the healing power of time. The author uses beautiful and evocative language to convey the depth of her feelings, creating a powerful and moving portrayal of love in all its forms.

    The 7955th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. War Music by Christopher Logue

    "War Music" is a modernist adaptation of Homer's "Iliad," retelling the epic tale of the Trojan War in contemporary language. The narrative focuses on the final weeks of the ten-year war, highlighting the intense conflict between the Greek hero Achilles and the Trojan prince Hector. The book features vivid and imaginative descriptions of battles, and the characters are portrayed with psychological depth, making the ancient story accessible and engaging for modern readers.

    The 10669th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Staying Alive by Neil Astley

    "Staying Alive" is a comprehensive anthology of contemporary poetry that explores the human condition and our shared experiences. The compilation features a diverse range of voices and styles from poets around the globe, with a particular focus on works that reflect on life's trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Through the power of poetry, the book seeks to inspire, provoke thought, and provide comfort, making it a relatable and accessible read for both poetry enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

    The 10817th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. The Lost Leader by Mick Imlah

    "The Lost Leader" is a collection of poems that explore various aspects of British history and culture, with a particular focus on Scotland. The author uses a mix of traditional and modern forms to delve into topics such as the Jacobite Rebellion, the life of Alfred Lord Tennyson, and the Scottish national football team. The collection is noted for its wit, humor, and evocative descriptions, offering a unique perspective on the past and present of Britain.

    The 10884th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download