Books by Sylvie Weil

Simone Weil was one of the twentieth century's most original philosopher-critics, and as a result her legacy has been claimed by many. This memoir by Weil's niece is strong-willed and incisive and as close as we are likely to get to the real Simone Weil.

Taking her cue from self-portraits by women artists, Weil gives a playful twist to the concept of self-representation. Ranging from the 13th c. through the Renaissance to Frida Kahlo and Vivian Maier, each picture she describes acts as a portal to a significant moment from her own life, and sparks anecdotes tangentially touching on topical issues.