Heureux qui comme Ulysse

Easy French Poetry - Reading & Analysis

By: Joachim du Bellay

Narrated by: Camille Chevalier-Karfis

In this audiobook, I first read the poem in slow enunciated French then use simple, everyday French language to explain each individual verse. I then talk about the life of the author, give a full analysis of the poem and finally re-read the poem at a faster speed with a more personal interpretation.

Not only is it a great cultural subject but it's a fantastic way to learn new vocabulary, verb tenses and improve your understanding of deeper conversations. French culture is deeply engrained with poetry and this audiobook will teach you both formal and modern pronunciation.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.Public Domain (P)2013 French Today

This is a brilliant idea

What did you love best about Heureux qui comme Ulysse (Easy French Poetry)?

This is an excellent idea. The speaker recites the poem slowly, then explains it line by line. This is followed by a discussion of the artistic aspects of the poem, a bit about the life of the poet, and finally, a repetition of the poem at a normal speed, with the speaker's interpretation of the rhythm, etc.

What other book might you compare Heureux qui comme Ulysse (Easy French Poetry) to and why?

One nice thing about this poem is that it's one that is widely taught in French schools, so if you're not a native speaker, you'll be gaining a tiny bit in common with your French friends' cultural/childhood background.

What does Camille Chevalier-Karfis bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The recording is entirely in French, so if you're an absolute beginner, you're not likely to be able to follow it. On the other hand, if you're at a B1/2 level or so, you shouldn't have any trouble (although you'll probably need a dictionary), and the recording comes with a PDF of the contents, so you can follow along in print if you're more comfortable with that, or if you're below B level. (I'm referring to the CEFR levels here.)

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

In sum, I enjoyed this recording, and learned things from it. It's worth your time!