The Spleen of Paris

"The Spleen of Paris" is a collection of prose poems written by Charles Baudelaire, published in 1869. This work captures the complexities of urban life in Paris, exploring themes of beauty, melancholy, and the passage of time. Baudelaire depicts the city as both inspiring and oppressive, reflecting his own feelings of alienation and desire. The collection dives into the experiences of individuals in the bustling metropolis, showcasing the contrast between modernity and human emotions. It is considered a precursor to modernist literature, influencing many writers and artists in their exploration of urban existence.