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Rating(3.8 / 5.0, 23 votes)
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23 reviews
July 15,2025
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Sometimes, we forget the aspect of Camus as a journalist.

This book shows us the importance of this aspect, as well as its parallelism with the literary work of the Algerian author.

Combat was the most important newspaper during the resistance in secrecy.

Even though today Combat may have fallen into oblivion, we should claim the importance that it had during and after the war.

Camus' work as a journalist was not only a means of expressing his views and ideas but also a way to actively participate in the struggle for freedom and justice.

His articles in Combat were often powerful and influential, inspiring many people to take action and resist the oppression of the Nazis.

By highlighting the significance of Camus' journalistic work, this book reminds us that his contributions to literature and society were much broader than we might initially think.

It also encourages us to look beyond the well-known literary works and explore the lesser-known aspects of his life and career.

In conclusion, we should not overlook the importance of Camus as a journalist and the role that Combat played in his life and in the history of the resistance.

July 15,2025
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I read this because I was deeply interested in Camus's remarkable transformation from initially supporting state-sponsored executions to ultimately believing they were never justified. It is truly fascinating to witness someone who has the courage and integrity to change their mind when confronted with the practical reality of their ideas.

In the France of his era, Camus held the view that society was justified in carrying out executions for those who had committed what could arguably be considered the worst horrors the modern world had ever seen. However, as he observed the actual implementation of this practice, he discovered that it led to a series of disturbing consequences. There were retribution killings, and many of the worst perpetrators managed to receive only minor sentences, while minor offenders, unfortunately, were unjustly sentenced to death.

Camus's ability to remain flexible in his thinking while still actively attempting to instigate positive change is indeed something that is highly worthy of emulation, especially in the current political climate in the US today. His example serves as a powerful reminder that we should always be open to reevaluating our beliefs and taking action to make the world a better place.
July 15,2025
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Camus really seemed to get the situation right at a time of emotional and urgent questions.

His insights and perspectives were truly remarkable, as if he had a unique ability to cut through the chaos and see the heart of the matter.

However, I am also open to hearing criticism, especially from the left.

I believe that in order to have a well-rounded understanding of any issue, it is essential to consider different viewpoints and ideas.

The left may have valid concerns or alternative interpretations that could challenge and expand my own thinking.

By engaging in a dialogue with critics from the left, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues at hand and to refine my own position.

After all, it is through the exchange of ideas and the willingness to listen and learn that we can make progress and find more effective solutions to the problems that confront us.
July 15,2025
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Merveilleux combat pour la justice et le respect de la presse!


La justice et le respect de la presse sont des valeurs fondamentales dans une société démocratique. Cependant, ils sont souvent menacés par différentes forces. C'est pourquoi le combat pour la justice et le respect de la presse est si important.


Le rôle de la presse est de fournir des informations précises et objectives, de faire la lumière sur les problèmes sociaux et politiques, et de tenir les pouvoirs publics responsables. Cependant, la presse est parfois confrontée à des obstacles tels que la censure, la diffamation, et la violence.


C'est pourquoi il est essentiel de soutenir le journalisme indépendant et de défendre le droit des journalistes à exercer leur profession librement et sans peur. Nous devons tous participer à ce combat pour garantir que la justice et le respect de la presse soient préservés dans notre société.

July 15,2025
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This book is truly a remarkable and captivating little gem of history. It combines several of Camus’ essays that he penned for a newspaper of the French resistance towards the conclusion of the Second World War and in the immediate aftermath.

Not only do they hold historical significance due to the context in which they were written, but they are also highly significant as they vividly illustrate the evolution of Camus’ interests and beliefs over the course of time.

When one mentions an essay collection, it is quite common for people to lose interest and assume that it won't be engaging. I, for one, have frequently relegated essay collections to my stack of bedtime books - those that I read in small increments before going to sleep, simply to get through them.

However, the great news is that this is not the case here. The essays in this collection are truly fascinating and are deliberately crafted to be accessible and understandable to the average person on the street. They offer valuable insights and perspectives that can engage and enlighten readers from all walks of life.

July 15,2025
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Fascinating collection of work.

60% of it is perhaps only of interest to hardcore historians of the period and place. Camus is writing chiefly as a journalist of his time, discussing various acts of parliament and policies of parties etc. However, the other 40% contextualises a whole range of his other works in new ways. In particular, 'Man in Revolt'. You can chart his movement into the disillusionment this book represents, or at least begins with. Even through tone, you can easily notice the Socialist becoming the socialist becoming the internationalist. And an internationalist in the end who seems just as confused about the concept as those that oppose him, but clings to it strangely anyway.

The extensive footnotes are extremely useful to contextualise many of the smaller moments Camus journalises upon. Even if sometimes they dip too heavily into editorialising, particularly when it comes to Camus' movement into Internationalism. I am more than able to forgive this thoughtful man of 1940s France (immediately post atomic bombs) clinging to this idea. But much less likely in 2020 to forgive Jacqueline Lévi-Valensi her enthusiastic agreements. Camus proves that he is a man who is more than capable of changing his mind about ideas when those ideas change, or they are proved failures. So just as he revised his position on Communism, he would most certainly have revised his position on Internationalism in the current climate.
July 15,2025
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It is obvious that it is hard to read the whole thing at once.

However, it is truly great as something that I delve into once a year, specifically when I am about to teach "The Stranger".

And I become impassioned while reading his earliest articles.

Also, "Neither Victims nor Executioners" is really awesome in the later editorials.

It promotes revolution, is anti-war, and is pro-activism.

This collection of works offers a wealth of thought-provoking and inspiring content that enriches my understanding and teaching.

Each time I engage with it, I discover new perspectives and am reminded of the importance of these ideals in our society.

It serves as a valuable resource that I look forward to exploring annually.
July 15,2025
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August 21, 1944 marked a significant moment.

For a newspaper that emerged from the spirit of resistance and endured the perils of clandestinity, it had been a five-year-long obstinate and silent struggle. Now, in a Paris liberated from its shame, it could finally see the light of day.

The French Resistance against Nazi occupation and the Vichy puppet state manifested in various ways. Camus was involved in writing and editing for the secretly distributed Combat. This collection of opinion pieces, with many anonymous writings, couldn't all be surely attributed to Camus. However, the editors selected those articles that aligned with his style and sensibility. The resulting collection exudes defiance and hope.

Camus is often associated with other existentialists of his era. Although he rejected that classification, his writings bear witness to the importance of truth above other considerations. In the face of the worst atrocities of the 20th century, he aimed to be clear-sighted and unapologetic. He criticized the French politicians who were complicit in the occupation and then overly ambitious in the liberation. He owned up to France's shame and recognized the long path to redemption, while also refusing to be subservient to the Allies who freed France from its subservience. Despite the horrors inflicted by the German state, he believed that the future demanded revision rather than retribution. And, despite those horrors, he held the belief that we can create a better world if we choose, as no one else is accountable for the values we uphold in this world.
July 15,2025
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This is a remarkable collection of Camus' writings specifically penned for the French Resistance newspaper Combat towards the conclusion of World War II.

Regrettably, these works often tend to be overlooked within the comprehensive body of Camus' literary output. This is truly a pity as, in my opinion, they represent some of his very finest writings.

It is extremely gratifying to witness all of these pieces compiled in an English edition. The book's layout is truly excellent, making it both visually appealing and easy to navigate.

Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this collection. It offers a unique and valuable perspective into Camus' thoughts and ideas during a crucial period in history.

Whether you are a die-hard Camus fan or simply interested in exploring the works of a great philosopher and writer, this book is well worth your time and attention.
July 15,2025
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The perspective of a journalist in France is truly captivating.

During the war, France was occupied, and the journalist witnessed the hardships and struggles of the people.

Then, when France was liberated, there was a sense of hope and new beginnings.

The first election after the war was a significant event, and the journalist covered it with great enthusiasm.

However, the post-war trials also brought to light many issues and challenges.

The journalist was concerned about the weakness of the League of Nations, which was supposed to maintain world peace but seemed ineffective.

Moreover, the hypocrisy in international politics and policies was also a cause for concern.

Finally, the influence of moneyed interests in news organizations was a growing problem.

The journalist believed that the media should be independent and objective, but this was becoming increasingly difficult in the face of financial pressures.

Overall, the journalist's perspective provides a unique and valuable insight into the complex and ever-changing world of post-war France.
July 15,2025
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They aren't essays; they are Camus' columns from his time at Combat.

These columns are short, terse, and to the point. Camus was in his early 30s when he wrote them. They vividly reflect the moral vision of resistance during that period.

Camus was neither an existentialist nor a nihilist. In fact, he was profoundly sane. These columns bear out his unwavering refusal to give in to despair. His moral vision was characterized by extraordinary clarity and coherence. He knew that reason has its limits, which is quite unlike the contemporary world.

Camus didn't care for Hemingway and even made "Requiem for a Nun" into a play.

Some highlights include: "After all, a democrat is a person who admits that his adversary may be right, he therefore allows him to speak and agrees to consider his arguments." Also, "This century is searching in vain for reasons to love, which it has lost." And "There are many ambitions which I do not share, and I would not be comfortable if I were obliged to avail myself of the paltry privileges reserved for those who compromise with the world in order to make their way."

Overall, these columns offer a unique and valuable perspective on Camus' thoughts and the times in which he lived.
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