Balzac, le roman de sa vie

The book, which Zweig spent ten years working on, depicts Balzac as a mythical figure, a creator who competes with God, but also as a man burdened by debt, obsessions, and tireless work. Zweig records Balzac's youth, unsuccessful business ventures (such as failed investments in publishing), his struggle with creditors, and his passion for writing The Human Comedy.

Balzac's life is depicted as a novel: from working nights with coffee and candles, through unhappy loves, such as the one with Madame de Hanska, to his premature death at the age of 51, shortly after marriage. Zweig emphasizes Balzac's genius, but also his weaknesses - extravagance, greed, and chaotic life. The book explores how Balzac, despite his troubles, created a world that transcends reality, and his books became his true biography.

This original French edition on publisher's paper, a limited numbered edition, is particularly valuable for its rarity and quality. Zweig's biography, translated from the German by Fernando Delmas, has been praised for its elegant style and deep understanding of Balzac's complex personality, making it one of the most significant biographies of the author of The Human Comedy.