simone de beauvoir (1908–1986) was a french existentialist philosopher, writer, social theorist, and feminist activist. she wrote novels, essays, biographies, autobiographies, and monographs on philosophy, politics, and social issues. she had a significant influence on both feminist existentialism and feminist theory.
bonneville’s encounter with de beauvoir’s debut novel, ‘she came to stay,’ marked the genesis of a lasting influence that permeates all their subsequent projects. de beauvoir’s exploration of fundamental themes such as autobiography, politics, feminism, gender, sexuality, existentialism, and death resonates deeply with bonneville’s own artistic endeavors. while approaching these subjects through distinct lenses, both share a common ethos rooted in the pursuit of truth and the transformative power of culture. for both, literature became a lifeline, rescuing them from despair in their formative years.