An Underworld From Within (Press, 6 November 1965)
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Summary: An Underworld From Within (Press, 6 November 1965)
The Thief Journal, authored by Jean Genet and reviewed by Anthony Bond, offers an insightful glimpse into the life of a man who identifies as both a thief and a homosexual. Initially published in France in 1949, the work immerses readers in a distinctive and vibrant world populated by thieves, sex workers, beggars, and homosexuals, presenting a reality that is both larger than life and laden with significance. Jean Genet was born in Paris in 1910 as an illegitimate child and spent some of his early years under the care of the national agency for foundlings, "Assistance Publique." His journey into criminality began at the tender age of 10 when he was placed in a reformatory for theft. Over the next three decades, Genet traversed the criminal and homosexual underbelly of Europe, accumulating a series of prison sentences across various countries due to his persistent engagement in theft, culminating in ten convictions in France alone. His severe sentence of life imprisonment was notably abated after appeals by prominent French artists and writers, leading to a pardon from President Auriol. He now lives a life marked by periods of freedom, although he remains tied to his past. In his journal, Genet delves into themes of betrayal, theft, and homosexuality, presenting a narrative that might clash with conventional morals and standards. However, rather than merely recounting his experiences, he elevates the context of his existence into an art form, crafting a love letter to a lifestyle that is often marginalized or condemned. Through his eyes, the underworld is transformed from a space of grimness and despair into one of profound beauty and meaning. Bond notes that while the work may not resonate with those holding conservative or conventional views, it challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of the world. The squalor that appears bleak from an external viewpoint refracts into a varied tapestry of life when seen from Genet's lens. Ultimately, The Thief Journal becomes a celebration of a culture that, while unconventional, is rich in emotion, lyricism, and depth.
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