Paris Spleen: little poems in prose, part of Wesleyan Poetry Series, delves into the urban landscapes of 1850s Paris through the lens of Charles Baudelaire’s innovative hybrid form. Originally penned between 1855 and Baudelaire’s death in 1867, this collection comprises fifty poems that traverse from the opulence of café society to the grittier realities of city streets. These prose poems are celebrated for their modernist approach, blending lyrical beauty with biting sarcasm, making them a seminal example of urban writing. Keith Waldrop’s translation captures the essence and musicality of Baudelaire’s work, providing an authentic reimagining that resonates deeply with both historical context and contemporary sensibilities. This edition, published by Wesleyan University Press in April 2020, is a must-read for poetry enthusiasts and those interested in the evolution of modern literature.