Annie Ernaux and Marc Marie's 'The Use of Photography' explores love, mortality through clothing photographs
The book 'The Use of Photography' by Annie Ernaux and Marc Marie showcases 14 analogue images of discarded garments linked to their relationship. Initially released in French in 2005, it was produced in 2003 during Ernaux's breast cancer chemotherapy. These photographs embody themes of love and resilience, with the attire symbolizing human bodies and desires. One image features a crushed cigarette and glasses, while another depicts overturned boots, illustrating intimacy. Both authors share insights on how clothing preserves traces of human existence. Ernaux's interest in photographs echoes her childhood fascination with organic stains. The English translation by Alison L. Strayer is available in softcover from Fitzcarraldo Editions for £12.99, examining clothing as symbols of transience.
Key facts
- Annie Ernaux and Marc Marie co-authored 'The Use of Photography' in 2003
- The book was first published in French in 2005
- Ernaux was undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer during the book's creation
- The work contains 14 analogue photographs of discarded clothing
- Photographs were taken in locations where the couple met during their affair
- The book includes written reflections by both authors on each image
- Alison L. Strayer translated the work into English
- Fitzcarraldo Editions published the English edition for £12.99 in softcover
Entities
Artists
- Annie Ernaux
- Marc Marie
- Alison L. Strayer
Institutions
- Fitzcarraldo Editions
- ArtReview