Eugène Green's Novel Explores Resurrection and Memory
Eugène Green's debut novel, released by Actes Sud, demands two readings: the first for enjoyment and the second for deeper understanding. The story centers on Jérôme Lafargue, a Sorbonne academic in modern-day Paris, whose war-traumatized father is convinced that Jérôme perished at the hands of Germans. During Easter Sunday, Jérôme confronts this belief, recognizing his dual existence of being both dead and resurrected. The plot also features Johann Launer, a German history lecturer who discovers his death certificate and photographs among his father's possessions. Seeking to reclaim his identity, Johann turns to Jérôme for assistance. Throughout Holy Week, Jérôme writes and revisits memories while Johann explores Paris. The novel delves into literature, miracles, and human connections, leading to Jérôme hearing his father's voice and envisioning a reimagined Europe.
Key facts
- Eugène Green's first novel is published by Actes Sud.
- The novel requires two readings: to read and to reconstruct.
- The protagonist is Jérôme Lafargue, a professor at the Sorbonne in Paris.
- Jérôme's father believes his son was killed by Germans.
- The story takes place during Holy Week and Easter.
- Johann Launer is a German history professor who discovers his own death certificate.
- Johann's father's belongings include photos of a woman, child, apartment, staircase, and Jérôme with Jana.
- Jana is a Czech fugitive met in Munich in 1968.
- The novel involves themes of resurrection, memory, and identity.
- The narrative reconstructs the family of Wenzel Launer in Nazi-occupied Prague.
Entities
Artists
- Eugène Green
Institutions
- Actes Sud
- Sorbonne
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Munich
- Germany
- Prague
- Czech Republic
- Terezin
Sources
- artpress —