Georges Bataille's Legacy: Read vs. Known, Fifty Years After His Death

Georges Bataille passed away in July 1962, and now, fifty years later, some wonder if his works are genuinely being read despite his recognition. Back in 1957, only 1,500 copies of "Le Bleu du ciel" were sold, with "L'Érotisme" being his only significant success at the time of his death. To commemorate Bataille, two events are happening: a study day at the Centre Pompidou on June 1, arranged by the B.P.I., and a special feature in "Revue des Deux Mondes" with contributions from various writers. Since its seventh issue, the art magazine has highlighted Bataille, including discussions on his influence. The author desires a quicker release of Bataille's works in the Pléiade series, contrasting his profound insights with what he sees as the vulgarity in Salim Bachi's recent writing justifying violence.