Paul Morand, French author and diplomat (d. 1976)
Paul Morand, born on **March 13, 1888**, and passing away on **July 24, 1976**, was a prominent French author whose literary contributions, particularly his captivating short stories and novellas, earned him considerable acclaim. His writing was celebrated for its distinctive style, sharp wit, and remarkable descriptive power, qualities that cemented his reputation during his most prolific period, the vibrant interwar years of the 1920s and 1930s. During this era, Morand captivated both the upper echelons of society and the discerning artistic avant-garde, becoming a veritable cult favorite among these influential circles. He is often categorized as an early **Modernist** and **Imagist**, reflecting his innovative approach to literature.

Early Life, Education, and Social Standing

Morand’s intellectual journey began with a solid academic foundation. He was a distinguished graduate of the **Paris Institute of Political Studies**, an education that meticulously prepared him for what was expected to be a distinguished diplomatic career. Further enhancing his academic credentials, he also attended the prestigious **Oxford University**. Born into the upper class and later marrying into significant wealth, Morand naturally navigated the highest social strata of his time. His life was characterized by privilege and entitlement, beliefs he openly embraced, seeing class distinction as both inevitable and desirable. His diplomatic postings were varied and extensive, affording him the opportunity to travel widely across the globe, experiences that undoubtedly influenced his keen observational skills and descriptive prose.

Controversial Ideologies and Wartime Activities

Beneath the polished facade of the acclaimed author and diplomat lay a deeply troubling adherence to racial, ethnic, and **anti-Semitic ideologies**. Morand’s intellectual landscape was shaped by figures like **Friedrich Nietzsche** and **Oswald Spengler**, but perhaps most disturbingly, by **Joseph Arthur de Gobineau**, whose treatise argued for the superiority of the white race. These influences profoundly informed his worldview and actions, especially during the tumultuous years of **World War II**. Pledging allegiance to the collaborationist **French Vichy regime**, Morand became a government functionary and an active **Nazi collaborator**. His involvement was not peripheral; he served as a Vichy ambassador, representing the regime in both Romania and Switzerland during the war, a stark and indelible blemish on his otherwise glittering career.

Literary Influence and Later Recognition

Despite the controversies surrounding his political affiliations, Morand remained an influential figure in certain literary circles. He was notably a patron and an inspirational force behind the **Hussards literary movement**, a group that staunchly opposed the prevailing philosophical currents of existentialism in post-war France. His artistic merit, though overshadowed by his wartime conduct, was eventually acknowledged by France’s highest cultural institution. Morand made four attempts to gain admission to the highly esteemed **Académie française**, an institution whose "immortals" are tasked with safeguarding the French language. He was finally accepted in **1968**, a decision that notably drew the public protest of none other than **Charles de Gaulle**, reflecting the deep divisions and unresolved questions that Morand’s complex legacy continued to provoke.