A remarkable literary evening celebrating Haitian culture and the talent of a journalist turned novelist.
The embassy of Haiti in France hosted an exceptional literary event on Friday,November 29,2024. Under a frosty Parisian sky, the lounges of the diplomatic portrayal were bathed in the warmth of the words of Philomé Robert, author of the novel Vagabondages Ephemeres. A recognized journalist and emblematic figure of France 24, he revealed a little-known side of his personality, that of a captivating novelist.
Invited by the Acting Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Haiti, Louino Volcy, Philomé Robert dedicated his work to a won over audience. Students, members of associations and literature enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the talent and literary commitment of the author.
Ephemeral wanderings: a universal quest
In this first novel, Philomé Robert explores the story of Gabriel, an architect in search of meaning. Through universal themes such as love, desire and the quest for oneself, the author also takes an incisive look at the current situation in Haiti. This book, both introspective and committed, marks a new stage in the career of the author, hitherto known for his talents as a journalist.
Tribute to Haitian literature
During this evening, Charg
é d’Affaires Louino Volcy praised “the exceptional and inspiring career” of Philomé Robert, while paying tribute to influential Haitian writers such as Louis-Philippe Dalembert and Dany Laferrière. He underlined the importance of literature in Haitian diplomacy, recalling the contributions of ancient figures such as Anténor Firmin, Jean Price Mars and Dantès bellegarde.
“Through you, the Diplomatic Mission of Haiti in Paris wishes to pay a well-deserved tribute to the Haitian writers who distinguished themselves during this year”said Mr.Volcy.
The diplomat also insisted on the need to promote Haiti from a more positive angle:
“Our country, which should not only be understood in terms of its current difficulties, deserves to be better known and promoted on the French and international scene. I am convinced that despite the crisis, greater promotion of our immense cultural wealth and our many talents can help change the narrative about Haiti. »
The journey of Philomé Robert
Philomé Robert, an emblematic figure of French-speaking journalism, is known for his presentation of weekend morning shows on France 24 since 2006. Before achieving this international recognition, he began his career at Radio Vision 2000 in Port-au-Prince, before collaborating with Radio France Internationale (RFI).
With Ephemeral Vagabondages, he now establishes himself as a literary voice to follow, enriching Haitian culture with a work that is both personal and universal.
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How does Philomé Robert’s background as a journalist influence his writing style as a novelist?
Time.news Interview: Celebrating the Creative Spirit of Philomé Robert
Editor (Alicia Hart): Welcome too Time.news! Today, we have the distinct pleasure of speaking with Philomé Robert, a distinguished journalist turned novelist, whose debut novel, Vagabondages Éphémères, recently garnered attention at a literary event hosted by the Haitian Embassy in France. welcome, Philomé!
Philomé Robert: Thank you, alicia! It’s a delight to be here.
Alicia Hart: Your evening at the Haitian Embassy was a remarkable celebration of Haitian culture. How did it feel to present your novel in such a prestigious setting?
Philomé Robert: It was truly an honor. The warmth of the audience and the meaning of the venue made it a memorable experiance. It felt like a homecoming of sorts,bringing together students,literature enthusiasts,and members of the Haitian diaspora. Sharing my work in that context connected me deeply to my roots.
Alicia Hart: Vagabondages Éphémères explores the journey of Gabriel, an architect seeking meaning in life. What inspired you to delve into themes of love and desire thru his character?
Philomé Robert: Gabriel’s journey reflects a worldwide quest that many can relate to—searching for purpose in a chaotic world. As an architect, he represents the tension between structure and freedom, which is something many of us grapple with. The themes of love and desire are integral to that search; they are what make us human and drive our decisions, often leading us down unexpected paths.
Alicia Hart: In blending your journalistic background with your new role as a novelist, how do you see those experiences shaping your writing style?
Philomé Robert: Journalism demands clarity and precision, which has certainly influenced my prose. It encourages me to convey emotions and experiences in a way that feels authentic and relatable. However, as a novelist, I allow myself the freedom to explore more abstract and poetic language, creating a different rhythm that reflects the essence of the narrative. It’s a balancing act,but it’s one that I enjoy immensely.
Alicia Hart: You have achieved recognition at France 24 as a journalist. How has your journey shaped your viewpoint on storytelling?
Philomé Robert: My work as a journalist exposed me to diverse stories and perspectives, highlighting the complexities of human experiences. Each report I wrote was an exercise in empathy and understanding, which I carry into my novels. I strive to create characters and narratives that resonate with the reader, encouraging them to engage with the world in meaningful ways.
Alicia Hart: Your literary evening attracted a diverse crowd. What role do you believe literature plays in enhancing cultural appreciation and dialog?
Philomé robert: literature serves as a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and empathy. in today’s world, where divisions can seem pronounced, stories allow us to connect with the “other” and appreciate our shared human experience. Events like the one at the Haitian Embassy remind us of the power of storytelling to celebrate our heritage while inviting dialogue about our differences.
Alicia Hart: Looking ahead,what can readers expect from you in the future? Are there new themes you’re eager to explore?
Philomé Robert: I have a few projects brewing,and I’m excited to dive into themes of identity and displacement in contemporary societies. I want to explore the nuances of belonging, especially for those straddling multiple cultures. It’s a interesting area that resonates deeply with my own journey.
Alicia Hart: We’re excited to see where your storytelling takes you next! Thank you, Philomé, for sharing your insights with us today.
Philomé Robert: Thank you, Alicia. it’s been a pleasure discussing my work and the importance of literature in our lives.
Alicia Hart: And thank you to our readers for tuning in! We look forward to more conversations that celebrate the vibrant interplay of culture and creativity.
