Translated from Spanish

This looks like a fun book for those of us who ponder the evident connection between literary genius and wretched personal lives. "Written Lives" by Javier Marías.

"On the other hand, [James's] enthusiasm for Maupassant knew no bounds, again thanks to a single visit: the French short-story writer had received him for lunch in the society of a lady who was not only naked, but wearing a mask. This struck James as the height of refinement, especially when Maupassant informed him that she was no mere courtesan, prostitute, servant, or actress, but a femme du monde , which James was perfectly happy to believe."

...

"The death of Yukio Mishima was so spectacular that it has almost succeeded in obliterating the many other stupid things he did in his life."