Gaston Gallimard, French publisher, founded Éditions Gallimard (d. 1975)

Gaston Gallimard: A Titan of French Publishing

Gaston Gallimard (French: [ɡalimaːʁ]; 18 January 1881 – 25 December 1975) was an profoundly influential French publisher whose vision significantly shaped 20th-century French literature. His enduring legacy is inextricably linked to the creation and development of one of the world's most prestigious and prolific publishing houses.

The Birth of La Nouvelle Revue Française (NRF)

Gallimard’s journey into the literary world commenced with the co-founding of La Nouvelle Revue Française (NRF) in 1908. This esteemed literary review was established alongside two other towering figures of French letters: the celebrated novelist and Nobel laureate André Gide, and the distinguished literary critic Jean Schlumberger. The NRF quickly distinguished itself as a pivotal intellectual and artistic platform, publishing critical essays, poetry, and fiction that defined the vanguard of contemporary French literary thought. It became an essential voice, nurturing new talent and influencing literary trends across the francophone world.

From Review to Publishing Empire: The Evolution of Éditions Gallimard

Building upon the immense success and intellectual gravitas of the review, the trio – Gallimard, Gide, and Schlumberger – took a momentous step in 1911 by formally establishing a dedicated publishing division under the banner of La Nouvelle Revue Française. This expansion allowed them to not only feature works within the review but also to publish full-length books by the authors they championed.

By 1919, Gaston Gallimard consolidated his entrepreneurial spirit and publishing acumen by founding his own distinct publishing house, initially named Librairie Gallimard. This move afforded him greater autonomy and control over the growing enterprise. Despite establishing his independent imprint, Gallimard maintained a close, symbiotic relationship with the editorial board and the esteemed authors associated with La Nouvelle Revue Française. This strategic synergy allowed him to leverage the review's considerable prestige and extensive network, providing a powerful launchpad for his burgeoning publishing venture.

Today, this enterprise is globally recognized as Éditions Gallimard, a true colossus in the international publishing landscape and unequivocally one of the foremost French publishing houses. Throughout its illustrious history, Éditions Gallimard has curated an unparalleled catalogue, publishing works by an extraordinary constellation of literary giants, including numerous Nobel Prize recipients and winners of the coveted Prix Goncourt. Its impact on the shaping of both French and international literary canons is profound and undeniable.

Gallimard During World War II and the Occupation of Paris

During the tumultuous period of World War II and the German occupation of Paris, Gaston Gallimard’s activities extended beyond the realm of traditional publishing. Historical records indicate his participation in a series of notable "round-table" discussions. These meetings, held at the luxurious Georges V Hotel in Paris, brought together a diverse group of prominent French and German intellectuals and figures.

Attendees at these high-level discussions included:

• Gaston Gallimard himself
• The distinguished German writer, philosopher, and entomologist Ernst Jünger
• Influential French authors such as Paul Morand, known for his elegant prose and associations with the literary avant-garde
• The multifaceted French artist, writer, and filmmaker Jean Cocteau
• The controversial and complex French novelist and playwright Henry Millon de Montherlant
• The highly influential and equally controversial German legal scholar Carl Schmitt, a key figure in conservative legal theory.

These encounters, while documented, remain a subject of historical interest and scholarly debate, offering a nuanced glimpse into the complexities of intellectual and cultural life during a period of foreign occupation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gaston Gallimard

Who was Gaston Gallimard?

Gaston Gallimard (1881–1975) was a highly influential French publisher, best known as the founder of Éditions Gallimard, one of the most prestigious publishing houses in the world. He played a pivotal role in shaping 20th-century French literature by identifying and promoting many of its most significant authors.

What was La Nouvelle Revue Française (NRF)?

La Nouvelle Revue Française (NRF) was a prestigious French literary review co-founded by Gaston Gallimard, André Gide, and Jean Schlumberger in 1908. It quickly became a leading platform for modern French literature, criticism, and intellectual discourse, publishing works by emerging and established literary talents.

How did Éditions Gallimard originate?

Éditions Gallimard originated from the literary review La Nouvelle Revue Française. In 1911, the founders of the NRF established a publishing division. Then, in 1919, Gaston Gallimard created his own distinct publishing house, initially named Librairie Gallimard, which later evolved into the renowned Éditions Gallimard.

What was Gallimard's role during World War II?

During World War II and the German occupation of Paris, Gaston Gallimard participated in a series of "round-table" discussions held at the Georges V Hotel. These meetings involved a mix of prominent French and German intellectuals, including writers like Ernst Jünger, Paul Morand, Jean Cocteau, and Henry Millon de Montherlant, as well as the legal scholar Carl Schmitt. These interactions during the occupation remain a subject of historical study.