Full Name and Common Aliases

Natalie Clifford Barney was born as Natalie Clifford on October 31, 1876.

Birth and Death Dates

October 31, 1876 - February 2, 1972

Nationality and Profession(s)

American writer, poet, and salonnière.

Early Life and Background

Natalie Clifford Barney was the daughter of Alice Pike Barney and Albert Clifford Barney. Her family was part of the wealthy and influential American aristocracy. Born in Chicago, she spent most of her life in Paris, where she developed a close relationship with her mother who encouraged her writing.

Growing up, Natalie experienced restrictions on her education due to societal norms at the time but went on to develop an interest in literature and poetry. Her family's relocation to Paris allowed her to pursue her interests freely.

Major Accomplishments

Natalie Clifford Barney was a pioneering figure in American expatriate literary circles in 20th-century Paris. She co-founded the _Saturday: A Literary Review_ with Adrienne Monnier, another prominent female writer and feminist. This magazine played an important role in promoting modernist literature to English-speaking audiences.

Barney's work as a translator and editor made significant contributions to the French-American literary exchange during her time in Paris.

Notable Works or Actions

Natalie Clifford Barney wrote several volumes of poetry, including _The One Who Was Joy_ (1904) and _Our Land (1911). Her poetry collections explored themes related to love, desire, and feminism.

She was also an accomplished translator. Barney translated works from French into English, such as the collection of poems by Louise Bogan called _People on a Hill_. This work highlights her role in promoting women writers' voices.

Impact and Legacy

Natalie Clifford Barney's contributions to modernist literature can be seen through her involvement with influential magazines like _The Little Review_ and transition**. The latter was notable for its avant-garde approach, showcasing innovative writing by both men and women.

Barney also had a profound impact on the lives of those around her. Her home in Paris served as a gathering place for prominent writers such as Gertrude Stein, Djuna Barnes, and Samuel Beckett. This salon-like atmosphere facilitated cross-cultural exchange between artists from various backgrounds.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Natalie Clifford Barney's legacy is multifaceted. As an influential figure in modernist literature, she paved the way for future generations of women writers by promoting their work through her publications and social gatherings.

In particular, her poetry collections continue to be studied due to their exploration of themes related to love, desire, and identity.

Moreover, Barney's life serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to artistic expression and her unapologetic approach to exploring topics that were often considered taboo in her time.