Arthur Rimbaud is one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in French literature. Born in Charleville, France in 1854, Rimbaud was a precocious child who began writing poetry at the age of fifteen. His works, which were often characterized by their vivid imagery and symbolism, were highly influential in the development of the Symbolist movement. Rimbaud's life was marked by a series of tumultuous events, including a brief but intense relationship with the poet Paul Verlaine, a period of self-imposed exile in Africa, and a tragic death at the age of 37.
Rimbaud's early life was marked by a series of tragedies. His father, a former soldier, died when Rimbaud was only six years old, leaving his mother to raise him and his siblings alone. Rimbaud was an excellent student, and he was accepted into the prestigious Lycée in Paris at the age of fifteen. It was during this period that he began to write poetry, and his works quickly gained attention from the literary establishment.
Rimbaud's most famous work, Une Saison en Enfer (A Season in Hell), was published in 1873. This collection of poems was highly influential in the development of the Symbolist movement, and it was praised by many of the leading figures of the time, including Verlaine. Rimbaud's relationship with Verlaine was tumultuous, and it ended in 1875 when Verlaine shot Rimbaud in the wrist.
Following the end of his relationship with Verlaine, Rimbaud embarked on a period of self-imposed exile in Africa. During this period, he worked as a trader and a gunrunner, and he wrote a number of poems about his experiences. He also wrote a number of letters to Verlaine, in which he expressed his longing for the poet.
Rimbaud returned to France in 1891, and he died two years later at the age of 37. His death was attributed to cancer, although some have speculated that it was due to syphilis.
Rimbaud's works have had a lasting impact on French literature. His vivid imagery and symbolism have been highly influential in the development of the Symbolist movement, and his works have been praised by many of the leading figures of the time, including Verlaine. His life was marked by tragedy and turmoil, but his works remain some of the most influential and enduring in French literature.