Short Fiction · Chapter
Two Famous Men explained
Patissot, accompanied by his journalist cousin, visits the homes of two celebrated artists: the painter Meissonier at Poissy and the writer Émile Zola at Medan.
What happens
Patissot, accompanied by his journalist cousin, visits the homes of two celebrated artists: the painter Meissonier at Poissy and the writer Émile Zola at Medan. The chapter contrasts the lavish, eccentric estate of Meissonier with Zola's more modest but imposing residence, highlighting Patissot's awe and social awkwardness.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Money
Patissot's awe is partly due to the immense wealth spent by Meissonier on his estate, contrasting with bourgeois frugality.
Illusion vs. Reality
Patissot's idealized expectations of the famous men clash with the mundane reality of their homes and behaviors.
Characters to notice
- Guy de Maupassant
Narrator of the chapter, describing Patissot's visits to Meissonier and Zola.
- Monsieur Saval
Patissot is the central character, experiencing the visits and feeling awestruck.
Key passages
“Patissot, wild with joy, accepted the invitation. He even bought a new frock-coat, that he might make a good appearance, his old one being a little worn, and he was horribly afraid lest he should say foolish things, either to the painter or the man of letters, as most persons do when they speak about an art which they have never practised.”
Patissot eagerly agreed to the plan and bought a new coat to impress the artists, worried he might embarrass himself by talking about art he didn't understand.
Highlights Patissot's anxiety and desire to fit in with cultured society.
“Every general has his Waterloo,' said he. 'Every Balzac has his foible, and every artist residing in the country has a desire to be a landed proprietor.'”
The journalist remarks that even great artists have weaknesses, like the urge to own property in the countryside.
Reflects the theme of human folly and the contrast between artistic genius and mundane desires.