Renee Vivien Quotes

Powerful Renee Vivien for Daily Growth

About Renee Vivien

Renee Vivien (Pen name of Ericka Jeanne-Albertine de Jong, born Ernest-Renée Hébrard), a significant figure in the Decadent movement of French literature, was born on February 20, 1877, in Wandsworth, London, to French parents. She spent her early years in England before moving to Paris at the age of thirteen, where she would later establish herself as a prominent poet and literary figure. Vivien's works were heavily influenced by the Romantic and Decadent movements, as well as classical Greek literature. Her unique style combined sensual imagery, mysticism, and an exploration of same-sex love, which was unconventional for her time. She published her first collection of poems, "Astarte: Sonnets de Venus", in 1894, at the tender age of seventeen. This work showcased her deep connection with Greek mythology and her exploration of feminine desire. In 1895, Vivien met Natalie Barney, a fellow writer and member of Paris's literary elite. The two women became lifelong partners and intellectual companions, hosting the famous salon at Clos Fleuri in the Montparnasse district of Paris, where many prominent artists and writers of the time gathered. Vivien's major works include "L'Assaut des dieux" (1903), a seven-part epic poem that continues her exploration of Greek mythology, and "EonnBNa: Sonnets de Sapho" (1905), a collection of poems based on the life and work of the ancient Greek poet Sappho. Vivien's life was marked by her dedication to her art and her love for Natalie Barney. She died in 1909, at the age of thirty-two, leaving behind a significant body of work that continues to influence modern literature and feminist thought. Her legacy lies in her bold exploration of female sexuality, her deep connection with Greek mythology, and her contribution to the Decadent movement.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."

This quote by Renee Vivien emphasizes that personal growth and identity are not predetermined or inherent, but rather something we actively shape throughout our lives. Instead of passively waiting to discover who we truly are, the message here is to proactively design our character, values, and experiences to create the person we want to become. This perspective encourages self-awareness, intentionality, and personal responsibility in life's journey.


"To love and be loved is to feel the sun shining on your face each day."

This quote emphasizes the profound warmth and joy that comes from being in a loving relationship. It suggests that, like the sun's rays illuminating one's face daily, love has the power to fill our lives with light, happiness, and a sense of connection. The act of loving and being loved creates an environment where we feel uplifted and nurtured each day.


"I have found what I sought for: it was myself."

This quote by Renee Vivien suggests that she has discovered her true self or identity, which had been her personal quest. It implies a journey of self-discovery, where one eventually realizes that the answers to one's questions about life, purpose, and happiness lie within oneself. It emphasizes the importance of introspection and self-understanding in personal growth and fulfillment.


"Love is a delicate flower that cannot bear the touch of doubt."

This quote suggests that love, like a fragile flower, thrives in an environment of trust and certainty, and wilts under the influence of doubt. Doubt casts a shadow of uncertainty and mistrust over the relationship, making it difficult for love to flourish or maintain its beauty. In other words, just as a flower requires nurturing and care to bloom, so too does love require trust and faith to grow and endure.


"The real lover is the man who makes every woman feel unique."

This quote emphasizes that a true lover appreciates each partner as an individual, acknowledging their uniqueness rather than treating them as interchangeable or stereotypical. A genuine lover fosters a sense of specialness in their partner, understanding and valuing the distinct qualities that make each person different. This perspective encourages empathy, respect, and meaningful connections between individuals.


I detest heavy perfume and shrill voices.

- Renee Vivien

Perfume, Voices, Shrill, Detest

I have no right to beauty. I had been condemned to masculine ugliness.

- Renee Vivien

Beauty, Been, Masculine, Condemned

I am a mediocre being, a bit cunning.

- Renee Vivien

I Am, Mediocre, Being, Cunning

What matters to us, the judgment of men? What have we to doubt, since we are pure before life?

- Renee Vivien

Matters, Judgment, Before, Pure

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