French author, poet, lyricist, jazz musician, engineer, critic, singer and translator Boris Vian died June 23, 1959 in Paris. He was an integral part of the Dada and Surrealist movements in France. 

Boris Vian (1920-59), Poet and Lyricist
Issued in 2020 by France
Designer: Sylvie Patte andTanguy Besset

After graduating from the Sorbonne in 1946, Vian wrote poetry, novels, literary criticism and music. At the age of 25, he wrote his first novel, entitled “And the Old Witch”. And the Old Witch”, which turned out to be a bestseller. This book has been hailed as one of the most important French novels in the history of literature. He also became an inventor and composer. He has co-written several films, including “Les étoiles chantent”, which has proven to be one of the most popular French films of all time. His musical work also includes compositions of famous jazz songs, which have been covered on albums by many performers.

He was also an active social activist. He fought for workers’ rights and civil rights. His social activism earned him election to the French parliament in 1945. Unfortunately, Boris Vian died in 1959 at the age of 39 of a heart attack. After his death, his work became an important part of French culture and is still used in films, music, and literature.
Vian was one of the most important artists of the Dada and Surrealist eras. His works of poetry, novels, music, and literary criticism have earned him a place in the history of French literature. His social and political activities make him an exemplary model of social action.
Boris Vian 1920-1959 : biographie de l’auteur de l’écume des jours