Photo : DOUROUX_Philippe ©Roberto Frankenberg
Max Jacob: an improbable encounter
Step into a poignant chapter of literary history that explores the haunting connection between the poet Max Jacob and a young aspiring writer who chose a dark path. Through insightful dialogue and powerful readings, this event sheds light on two lives that converged for a moment before history pulled them in drastically different directions. Discover the human complexity hidden within these contrasting legacies.
Mémorial de la Shoah de Drancy
About
The Drancy Shoah Memorial hosts an insightful historical session on Sunday, November 29, 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00, exploring the unlikely connection between poet Max Jacob and Jacques Evrard. Starting from their 1941 meeting, the discussion examines how their paths took radically different turns during the war. Open to attendees aged 12 and up, this event features author Philippe Douroux, actor Emmanuel Houzé, and moderator Eduardo Castillo. Admission is free, and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible. For those traveling from Paris, a complimentary shuttle service is provided for your convenience.
In 1941, the poet Max Jacob met Jacques Evrard, a 17-year-old aspiring writer. On that very day, he wrote his famous text "Advice to a Young Poet." Three years later, their destinies took radically different paths: arrested because he was Jewish, Max Jacob was interned in Drancy where he died in 1944; Jacques Evrard joined the Legion of French Volunteers Against Bolshevism before joining the Waffen-SS. On the occasion of this meeting, Philippe Douroux will trace two paths that were ultimately opposed by everything.
The discussion will be punctuated by readings of texts by Max Jacob.
In the presence of Philippe Douroux, author and journalist, and a reading by Emmanuel Houzé, actor, theater professor, and director.
Moderated by Eduardo Castillo.
Our take on this event
In 1941, the poet Max Jacob met 17-year-old Jacques Evrard, prompting the creation of his famous work, Advice to a Young Poet. Three years later, their lives followed starkly different trajectories: Jacob was interned at Drancy and died in 1944, while Evrard joined the Waffen-SS. Author and journalist Philippe Douroux will trace these diverging life paths during this special event.
The session includes readings of Max Jacob’s texts by actor and director Emmanuel Houzé, with the discussion moderated by Eduardo Castillo. This event takes place on November 29, 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00 at the Drancy Shoah Memorial.
Attendance is free, subject to seat availability, and requires a reservation. To assist with travel, a shuttle departs from the Paris Shoah Memorial at 13:00, returning at 17:45. The venue is completely wheelchair accessible.
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