The first Charles Veillon International Grand Prize was awarded in 1948 to Pierre Gamarra for his novel La Maison de feu, a narrative reflecting his deep ties to the Midi-Pyrénées region. Throughout a career spanning over six decades, he worked as a novelist, poet, literary critic, and long-serving editor at the prominent French magazine Europe.
Early Life and Resistance
Born in Toulouse on 10 July 1919, Gamarra began his career as a teacher in the South of France between 1938 and 1940. During the German Occupation, he participated in various Resistance groups based in his home city, an experience that involved him in the production and distribution of underground publications. This clandestine work acted as a catalyst for his transition into professional journalism.
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In 1951, Gamarra moved to Paris at the invitation of Louis Aragon, Jean Cassou, and André Chamson to serve as editor-in-chief of Europe. He held this position until 1974, at which point he became the magazine's director. He maintained a consistent presence in the publication through his book review column, La Machine à écrire, which he authored until 2009. Under his guidance, the periodical sustained the literary project originally established in 1923 by Romain Rolland and his contemporaries.
Literary Themes and Regional Identity
Much of Gamarra's prose is situated within his native South-West of France, capturing the history of Toulouse and life along the Garonne or in the Pyrenees. His notable works include the novel Le Maître d'école, published in 1955, and its subsequent sequel, La Femme de Simon, released in 1962. His narrative style was noted for its ability to merge realism with myth and history. His 1970 novel Les Coqs de minuit, set in Aveyron during the French Revolution, was later adapted for the television channel FR3 in 1973.
Works for Younger Readers
Beyond adult fiction, Gamarra was a prolific contributor to children's literature, producing collections of fables and poetry that became staples for French students. His efforts in this field earned him the 1961 Prix Jeunesse for L'Aventure du Serpent à Plumes. The Encyclopædia Britannica later characterized his writing for children as displaying notable drollery and technical precision. His legacy includes numerous public buildings, such as schools and libraries, which carry his name across France.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 July 1919, Toulouse
- Died: 20 May 2009, Argenteuil
- Citizenship: France
- Primary Magazine: Europe
- 1948 Award: Charles Veillon International Grand Prize
- 1961 Award: Prix Jeunesse
- 1985 Award: SGDL Grand Prize
Questions readers ask
What was Gamarra's role at the magazine Europe?
He served as editor-in-chief from 1951 to 1974 and subsequently as director.
Which historical period is covered in Les Coqs de minuit?
The novel is set in Aveyron during the French Revolution.
Achievements
- Charles Veillon prize in the French language — 1948