Patrick Besson (born 24 September 1956 in Oran, French Algeria) is a French novelist, essayist, and journalist. He began publishing at a young age, releasing his first novel, Les eaux de la mer, in 1975 at the age of 19, which gained him early attention in the French literary scene.
Career
Besson has authored more than thirty books, encompassing novels, short story collections, essays, and works of journalism. His notable novels include Maman, mon père et l'Algérie (1977), L'Enfant du cinéma (1993), and Le Contentement (1995). In addition to fiction, he has written political essays, often expressing left‑wing perspectives and critiquing contemporary French politics.
He has contributed regularly to newspapers and magazines such as Libération, Le Figaro, and L'Humanité, covering cultural and political topics. Besson is also recognized for his involvement in literary juries and his participation in public debates on literature and politics.
Awards and Honors
- Prix du livre Interallié (1990) for Le Goût du diable.
- Prix Françoise Sagan (1995) for Le Convent.
- Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (France), awarded for his contributions to French literature.
Controversies
Besson has been a polarizing figure due to his outspoken political views. In the 1990s, he faced criticism for comments perceived as supportive of controversial political positions, which sparked debate in French media. He has defended his statements as expressions of free speech and part of his broader political engagement.
Personal Life
Patrick Besson maintains a private personal life; publicly available information focuses primarily on his professional output. He resides in France and continues to write and publish works in various literary genres.
Bibliography (selected)
- Les eaux de la mer (1975)
- Maman, mon père et l'Algérie (1977)
- Le Goût du diable (1990) – Prix du livre Interallié
- Le Convent (1995) – Prix Françoise Sagan
- L'Enfant du cinéma (1993)
- Le Convent (1995)
Patrick Besson remains an active figure in French literature, contributing both creative and critical works that reflect his long‑standing involvement in cultural and political discourse.
