Jean-Paul Sartre's biography of Jean Genet, titled "Saint Genet: Actor and Martyr" in English, holds a specific significance that is lost in translation. The original French title, "Saint Genet: Comédien et Martyr", has a deeper meaning that is rooted in French culture and language.
In France, the name "Genet" evokes the memory of St. Genestus, a third-century Roman actor and martyr who is the patron saint of actors. The word "comédien" is used to describe an actor who puts on an act or sham, rather than a comedian. This title, therefore, provides insight into the author's character and persona, beyond what the English title initially conveys.
Interestingly, Jean Genet was saved from further imprisonment by the intervention of Jean Cocteau, a renowned writer, filmmaker, and artist who recognized Genet's literary talent after reading his first poem. During his imprisonment, Genet would steal paper from the prison workshop to write his poems, stories, and plays.
Edmund White, a famous gay novelist, has also written a biography of Genet. Genet's own sexuality, which was gay, contributed to the controversy surrounding his work in the United States, whereas his work was not controversial in Europe for the same reason.
