Le Select

Le Select is a renowned café and brasserie located in the heart of Paris, France. Established in the 1920s, it has become a cultural landmark, known for its significant role in the literary and artistic movements of the 20th century. Le Select is often associated with the Lost Generation, a term used to describe a group of American writers who lived in Paris and other parts of Europe during the interwar period.

History

Le Select was opened in the early 1920s, during a time when Montparnasse was the center of intellectual and artistic life in Paris. The café quickly became a gathering place for expatriate American writers, such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein, as well as other notable figures like Pablo Picasso and Henry Miller. These individuals were drawn to Paris for its vibrant cultural scene and the relative freedom it offered compared to the United States at the time.

The establishment's popularity among these influential figures helped to cement its reputation as a cultural hub. It was not only a place where they could socialize and exchange ideas but also served as an informal workspace where many of them wrote parts of their famous works.

Cultural Significance

Le Select's cultural significance extends beyond its association with famous personalities. It embodies the bohemian spirit of Montparnasse in the 1920s and 1930s, representing a period of artistic innovation and intellectual exchange. The café has been featured in numerous literary works and has maintained its status as a symbol of the artistic and literary life in Paris.

Architecture and Atmosphere

The architecture and atmosphere of Le Select are reflective of the classic Parisian café, with its outdoor seating, mirrored walls, and wooden furnishings. The interior is adorned with memorabilia and photographs of its famous patrons, serving as a testament to its storied past. The ambiance of Le Select captures the essence of the Parisian café culture, offering a space for relaxation, conversation, and inspiration.

Today

Today, Le Select continues to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists, attracted by its history and the chance to experience a piece of Parisian cultural heritage. It remains a meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals, preserving its legacy as a center for creative minds.

While it has undergone renovations and changes in ownership over the years, Le Select has retained its unique character and charm. It stands as a living museum of the Montparnasse era, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of Paris.

See Also

• Café de Flore
• Les Deux Magots
• Café culture in Paris
• Lost Generation