10 Must-Read French Poems

French poetry is among the most romantic , innovative , and influential forms of verse in the world. French poets, influenced by luminaries like Walt Whitman, helped to pioneer vers libre (free verse) in the late nineteenth century, leading to some of the most avant-garde poetry of the twentieth century. Below is a collection of iconic, celebrated, and influential French poems, showcasing styles from medieval ballads to modern free verse. 1. François Villon, ‘The Ballad of the Ladies of Yore’ François Villon (c. 1431-63) is renowned as a leading figure in medieval French poetry. Despite a tumultuous life, his works have had a lasting impact, inspiring poets like T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound . His poem famously asks, “Where are the snows of yesteryear?” capturing the theme of nostalgia and reflection on passing time. 2. Louise-Victorine Ackermann, ‘Hebe’ Louise-Victorine Ackermann (1813-90), associated with the Parnassian school, wrote in a neoclassical style that emphasized form. ‘Hebe’ ex…