• André Gide et André Malraux. L’amitié à l’œuvre (1922-1951)

We think of Malraux so busy building his reputation and his legend that we tend to forget this great individualist also built lasting friendships. Contrary to the ones of our time that will only leave future generations wind and pieces of emails miraculously saved on a hard disk, the ones of the past, kept on good old paper, challenge time. This volume of letters exchanged between the hyperactive adventurer and his elder, more comfortable at home with the exception of his famous expedition to Congo and the mandatory trip to the USSR, proves it. From 1922 to 1951, until Gide’s death, they wrote each other, met rue Vaneau, discussed literature (Malraux, who was much younger would become Gide’s publisher at Gallimard), and fought a common battle against fascism. They proved they shared a lot more than a simple name. Note there will be an exhibition “Malraux, éditeur extraordinaire” will be held at the galerie Gallimard from 19 April to 19 May.

• André Gide et André Malraux. L’amitié à l’œuvre (1922-1951), by Jean-Pierre Prévost, 248 p., €35.