Ferdinand von Schirach's 'Coupables' published by Gallimard
Ferdinand von Schirach, a German lawyer and writer, releases 'Coupables' (Gallimard), a collection of short courtroom stories. The opening tale, 'Fête communale', is a mere ten pages but delivers a devastating emotional impact. Von Schirach's writing style is stark, devoid of psychology or pathos, focusing on precise details that trace the misfortune of fateful encounters. His narratives draw from real criminal cases, presenting ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances. The book's underlying theme is that criminal violence opens abysses where humanity finds no reflection, and only art can temporarily fill that void. Gallimard had previously published a similar volume, 'Crimes', which is being reissued in Folio format. The review by Michel Vignard emphasizes the raw, unflinching nature of von Schirach's prose.
Key facts
- Ferdinand von Schirach is a lawyer and author.
- 'Coupables' is published by Gallimard.
- The opening story 'Fête communale' is ten pages long.
- The book consists of brief courtroom stories based on real cases.
- Von Schirach's earlier work 'Crimes' is being reissued in Folio.
- The review was written by Michel Vignard.
- The writing style is described as dry and without psychology or pathos.
- The theme suggests only art can save humanity from the void of violence.
Entities
Artists
- Ferdinand von Schirach
- Michel Vignard
Institutions
- Gallimard
Sources
- artpress —