The phrase denotes an individual’s preference for engaging with philosophical literature through the medium of French language renditions. This implies a reading habit wherein philosophical texts, originally written in various languages, are accessed and understood via their interpretations in French. For instance, one might choose to read Plato’s Republic not in its original Greek or an English translation, but rather in a French version.
This practice offers several potential advantages. Immersion in philosophical concepts while simultaneously engaging with the nuances of the French language enhances both comprehension and linguistic proficiency. It allows for the appreciation of subtleties in interpretation that may be specific to the French philosophical tradition or the translator’s perspective. Historically, accessing philosophical works through translation has been essential for the dissemination of ideas across linguistic and cultural boundaries, and French has often played a significant role in this process.
