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A poignant new work of fiction, “L’Inattendu” (“The Unexpected”), by Senegalese author Khadidiatou Faye Wagué, delves into the complexities of grief, familial duty, and the obstacles facing women in professional life. Published by Harmattan Senegal, the novel is a fictionalized autobiography offering a compelling narrative of resilience and self-discovery.
The story centers on Halimatou, a woman whose life is irrevocably altered by the hidden death of her mother. Driven by a desire to protect her grieving father, she makes the agonizing decision to conceal the truth, shouldering the burden of silence and navigating the delicate balance between personal mourning and filial obligation.
But Halimatou’s struggles extend beyond the confines of her family. Wagué, a specialist in Organizational Communication with a Master 2 from Rennes 2 University, skillfully weaves into the narrative a critical examination of societal issues prevalent in Senegal.
The novel confronts the often-overlooked challenges faced by women striving for professional advancement. Wagué’s work highlights the myth of women’s solidarity, revealing how jealousy and internal competition can undermine efforts to promote gender equality. The narrative explores how seemingly supportive initiatives can be paradoxically hampered by the very individuals they aim to empower.
Furthermore, “The Unexpected” tackles the difficulties faced by Senegalese professionals who have pursued higher education abroad. Halimatou’s experience illustrates the return of the graduate – a scenario where Western education doesn’t automatically translate into career success, raising crucial questions about the recognition of prior learning and effective integration into the Senegalese workforce.
Challenging Perceptions and Examining Societal Resistance
Wagué also deconstructs the notion of innate talent in the communications field, arguing that success is not solely based on natural aptitude but requires dedicated training and skill development. This challenges the simplistic view that communication is merely a “natural” ability.
The author further introduces the concept of the Nimby phenomenon – “Not In My Backyard” – observing its manifestation not only within local populations resisting projects in their area but also within the Senegalese government’s approach to external influences perceived as detrimental to national interests. Wagué views this as a “revolutionary policy to be encouraged,” anticipating long-term repercussions.
A Story Rooted in Personal Experience
The genesis of “The Unexpected” lies in a deeply personal experience. “I’ve been thinking about writing a book for a long time,” the author confided. “The trigger was an unfortunate event that happened to me at work and which involved my mother who is no longer in this world. That’s how one night, I decided to write this novel which is a fictionalized autobiography.” She described the writing process as a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to navigate a “dark period of her life more gently.”
Wagué completed the book in approximately five months, noting that she encountered no significant difficulties during the writing process. “No, I didn’t really encounter any difficulties, because the different themes that I covered in the book are relatively very accessible to me,” she explained. “Either I draw them from my personal experience or from the observation of those around me, or I also draw inspiration from my academic work.”
“The Unexpected” is ultimately a vibrant exploration of silent sacrifices, economic realities, and societal paradoxes. It is a testament to the resilience of a woman determined to forge her own identity and achieve success in the face of adversity.
