Todorov is concerned for French literature

In his work, 'La littérature en péril' ('Literature in danger'), the Franco-Bulgarian philosopher Tzvetan Todorov evaluates the qualitative evolution of French literary production. "Let us be clear: I did not want a polemical book. I wanted above all to sound an alarm bell", explains Tzvetan Todorov to Serge Bressan. "I am just noting the fact that the French novel today has less impact around the world. For example, French literature of the past used to occupy a major place in the culture of all Eastern and Central Europe. Currently, the novel is thriving: look at what is going on in the United States and in Latin America, in Asia, and Eastern Europe, where the novel has real vitality. France is no longer a trend setter. ... If, over time, some books continue to be read, there is a strong indication of their importance and strength. Some books exist that one can lean upon in life, but I cannot see any in today's French literature."

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