Cover of Mallarmé on fashion
Read Time: ~3.7 hr

Mallarmé on fashion

by P.N. Furbank and Alex Cain (2004)

About this book

In 1874, Stephane Mallarme, the great French poet, undertook a highly idiosyncratic project--the publication of a fashion magazine called La Derniere Mode (The Latest Fashion)--that he almost single-handedly compiled. Using a variety of feminine and masculine pseudonyms to theorize about fashion and to advise on popular vacation destinations, home furnishings, and entertainment, Mallarmé created a spectacularly original work. The distinguishing feature of Mallarme's magazine is that it explores the nature of fashion from the inside. While it is a genuine fashion magazine, it also satirizes the entire genre. Various theories have been entertained about the work: it has been viewed as a prose poem, a hoax, and a cynical money-making venture. Furbank and Cain, however, argue that such guesses are hopelessly off the mark. Complete with the original artwork and a contextualizing introduction and commentary, this is the definitive translation of one of French literature's greatest enigmas.

Setting / LocationFrance
Story EraModern Era
Protagonist / CoreMallarmé on fashion Lead Character

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Mallarmé on fashion by P.N. Furbank and Alex Cain | Literally Just Books