Antoine de Saint-Exupery was born on June 29, 1900, in Lyon, France. He grew up in a family of aristocrats and was the third of five children. From a young age, he showed a passion for literature and writing, which led him to pursue a career as a writer. In his early years, he attended schools in France before briefly studying architecture at L'Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
After studying architecture, Saint-Exupery developed an interest in aviation and obtained his pilot's license in 1921. He began working for Aeronautique Militaire as a pilot and later joined Aéropostale, a pioneering French airmail company, where he flew mail planes across the Sahara Desert. His experiences as a pilot greatly influenced his writing and inspired several of his works.
Saint-Exupery's literary career began to take off in the 1930s when he published his first novel, "Courrier Sud" (Southern Mail), in 1929. He went on to write several more novels, essays, and memoirs, but he is best known for his novella "Le Petit Prince" (The Little Prince), published in 1943. The book has since become a classic of children's literature and is beloved by readers of all ages around the world.
During World War II, Saint-Exupery joined the French Air Force and flew reconnaissance missions over enemy territory. In 1944, he disappeared during a mission over the Rhone Valley and was presumed dead. His plane wreckage was discovered in 2003, confirming his fate.
Saint-Exupery married Consuelo Gomez Carillo in 1931, and the couple had a tumultuous relationship. Despite their difficulties, he dedicated several of his works to her, including "Le Petit Prince." He was also rumored to have had an affair with Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the wife of aviator Charles Lindbergh, whom he had met during his time in the aviation industry.
Antoine de Saint-Exupery left behind a rich literary legacy that continues to inspire readers and writers alike. His works explore themes of love, loss, human nature, and the importance of imagination and creativity. He is remembered not only for his contribution to literature but also for his bravery as a pilot and his service during World War II.
In recognition of his talent and impact, Saint-Exupery was awarded the Grand Prix du roman de l'Academie francaise and posthumously received the U.S. National Book Award. His influence can be seen in the numerous adaptations and translations of "Le Petit Prince" and in the continued fascination with his life and work.