Main content
This programme will be available shortly after broadcast

A small patch of Montparnasse in Paris has been home to famous artists, writers and filmmakers. They remain even in death, in the nearby cemetery, a destination in its own right.

The neighbourhood of Montparnasse in central Paris has been home to some of the most influential artists, writers and composers of the last two centuries, perhaps nowhere more so than the area around Joanna Robertson’s street, rue Boissonade.

In the last of her series, Joanna explores the lasting influence that some of the area's writers, painters and film-makers have had, and continue to have. Their presence and appeal linger not just in the buildings where they lived, but also in their final resting place, the famous cemetery of Montparnasse, which has become a destination in its own right. Some white marble graves have lipstick stains on them, left by adoring fans.

Presenter: Joanna Robertson
Producer: Arlene Gregorius
Editor: Sara Wadeson
Production coordinator: Maria Ogundele
Sound engineer: Rod Farquhar

Song 'Sans Toi', performed by Corinne Marchand, from the film 'Cleo de 5 a 7', written and directed by Agnes Varda, in 1962. Lyrics of 'Sans Toi' by Agnes Varda, music by Michel Legrand.

Release date:

14 minutes

On radio

Tue 7 Jan 2025 21:45

Broadcast

  • Tue 7 Jan 2025 21:45

Death in Trieste

Death in Trieste

A 1760s murder still informs ideas about aesthetics, a certain sort of sex, and death.

Watch: My Deaf World

Watch: My Deaf World

Five compelling experiences of what it is like to be deaf in 21st-century Britain.

The Book that Changed Me

Five figures from the arts and science introduce books that changed their lives and work.

Download The Essay

Download The Essay

Download all the episodes from the series and listen at your leisure.

Podcast