The famous Belgian writer Jean Baptiste Baronian describes in his book the dramatic fate of one of the most prominent predecessors of French symbolism, Charles Baudelaire (1821–1867). His poetic creations aroused the most controversial feelings in society - from admiration to indignation, and for the publication of the cycle of poems “Flowers of Evil” Baudelaire was accused of trampling on moral principles and put on trial. But Baudelaire was also a very talented publicist and translator. Articles and essays dedicated to artists and writers, and translations of Edgar Allan Poe's works occupied no less a place in his work than poetry. His undoubted talents were recognized by such pillars of French literature as Hugo, Gautier, Sainte-Beuve, and outstanding artists Courbet, Delacroix and Manet painted his portraits. The publication was supported by the French Ministry of Culture (National Center for the Book).Ouvrage publié avec l'aide du Ministère français chargé de la Culture - Center national du livre.