But the French writers always had more originality and independence than others, and that regulator, which elsewhere was religion, long since ceased to exist for them.

In this quote, Henryk Sienkiewicz, the Nobel Prize-winning Polish author, highlights the distinctive characteristics of French writers compared to their counterparts from other countries. He praises their originality and independence, suggesting that French literature has always been marked by a unique ability to think and create freely, without being overly constrained by traditional forces. Sienkiewicz’s reference to religion as a "regulator" alludes to the role that religious influence traditionally played in shaping the themes and values of literature across various cultures.

Sienkiewicz argues that in France, writers were able to break free from the constraints of religion and other traditional authorities that influenced literature in other nations. This marks a significant shift, where French writers were able to explore ideas, themes, and narratives that might have been suppressed or regulated elsewhere. The "long since ceased to exist" phrase suggests that the French intellectual and artistic world evolved to a point where religion no longer acted as a dominant force in shaping creative expression.

The quote speaks to the broader cultural and intellectual evolution of France, especially during the Enlightenment and the French Revolution, when reason, freedom of thought, and individualism began to play a more central role in society. This shift allowed French writers, philosophers, and artists to challenge conventional ideas and explore new avenues of creativity and self-expression. Sienkiewicz is acknowledging the progressive nature of French literature and its role in fostering an environment of intellectual liberty.

Ultimately, Sienkiewicz’s comment celebrates the French literary tradition as one that has been historically more open to independent thought and less constrained by institutional forces like religion. He underscores the innovative spirit of French writers and their ability to cultivate a distinctive and influential literary voice that has contributed significantly to the world’s cultural and intellectual heritage.