In Fleurs et livres, we see a vibrant arrangement of flowers alongside a stack of books. The colors are rich and varied, with bright reds, yellows, and greens dominating the composition. The flowers appear fresh and lively, while the books suggest a sense of knowledge and contemplation.

The setting is intimate, inviting the viewer to appreciate the beauty of both nature and literature. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for deep color saturation and texture. Gauguin's brushwork is visible, adding a tactile quality to the flowers and books. The composition is balanced, with the flowers drawing the eye upward and the books grounding the scene.

This arrangement creates a harmonious interplay between the organic and the intellectual. Paul Gauguin, a leading figure in the Post-Impressionism movement, often explored themes of color and symbolism in his work. Fleurs et livres reflects his interest in the relationship between nature and human culture. An interesting fact about this painting is that it showcases Gauguin's transition towards more vibrant colors and simplified forms, which would later define his style in Tahiti.