2024-11-04 11:50:00
Awarded the 2024 Goncourt Prize Hoursby Kamel Daoud (Gallimard, 416 pages, 23 euros, digital 15 euros), announced on Monday 4 November by the Parisian restaurant Drouant, the Academy recently chaired by Philippe Claudel. They were also in contention Madelaine before dawnby Sandrine Collette (JC Lattès), Jacarandaby Gaël Faye (Grasset) e Archipelagosby Hélène Gaudy (L’Olivier).
Proclaimed in the same place in the aftermath of the Goncourt, the Renaudot prize recognizes Gaël Faye for Jacaranda.
“It’s your dream, paid for with your years of life. To my late father. To my mother who is still alive, but who no longer remembers anything. There are no words to truly say thank you.”, wrote Kamel Daoud on Xin a message accompanied by a photo of his parents.
An important figure in the public debate in France
Heralded for weeks as the favorite, Hours so it succeeds Watch over herby Jean-Baptiste Andrea (The Iconoclast). With this novel, Kamel Daoud appears for the second time in Goncourt’s final four, eleven years later Meursault’s counter-investigation (Actes Sud, 2014), winner of the Goncourt for the first novel. The following decade brings the writer, born in 1970 in Algeria, to Mostaganem, a historical journalist of Daily Orancolumnist at Pointas an important figure in public debate in France. He settled there in 2023, three years after receiving French nationality.
From silence to confrontation
OR Hours put this in his heart “black decade”. Twenty years after the end of the fighting, the story today unfolds in two parts: from shadow to light, from silence to confrontation. First, the dark and lyrical monologue of Aube, 26 years old, a smile-shaped scar around his neck, speaking to the child he is carrying. She won’t give birth to him in this country that has taken everything from him, she says. Then, the soliloquy of a bookseller driver who makes her get into his car when she wanted to leave Oran on foot. On a commemorative journey, he will take Aube to this village where, one night, Islamists killed and slaughtered.
He has an encyclopedic knowledge of the Civil War, to the point of being considered a madman; he bears the scars, but no longer has the vocal cords to talk about it. Embracing the disorder of their memories, the novel evokes buried images, re-presenting denied horrors in the hope of attesting them. More than a work of truth, Kamel Daoud lays the foundations for a liberation of the word.
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Interview between Alex Johnson, Editor of Time.news, and Dr. Sofia Laurent, Literary Critic and Expert on Contemporary French Literature
Alex Johnson: Welcome, Dr. Laurent, and congratulations on your deep insights into today’s literary scene! We’re here to discuss the recent award for the Goncourt Prize, which was won by Kamel Daoud for his new novel “Houris.” What are your initial thoughts on Daoud’s win?
Dr. Sofia Laurent: Thank you, Alex! Kamel Daoud’s recognition as the winner of the Goncourt Prize is monumental, not only for him personally but also for contemporary literature in France. His narrative prowess in “Houris” captures a unique perspective tied to profound historical and political themes, and this recognition solidifies his relevance in today’s literary discourse.
Alex Johnson: Indeed, many have noted that Daoud is an important figure in public debates in France. How do you think his background and experiences influence his writing?
Dr. Sofia Laurent: Daoud’s journey from Algeria to France, along with his role as a journalist, profoundly shapes his narrative style and thematic choices. He intricately weaves personal history with broader societal issues, particularly in his reflections on Islamism and post-colonial identity. His previous work, “Meursault’s Counter-Investigation,” already hinted at his sharp critique of historical narratives, which he continues in “Houris.”
Alex Johnson: You mentioned the themes in “Houris.” What specific issues do you think he addresses in this new novel?
Dr. Sofia Laurent: “Houris” is deeply rooted in the echoes of Algeria’s “black decade” — a period marked by violence and civil strife. Daoud splits the narrative into two parts, reflecting on the scars of this past while grappling with its repercussions on present-day identities. He poses critical questions about memory, loss, and the struggle for understanding amid chaos.
Alex Johnson: That sounds fascinating. In his acceptance speech, Daoud dedicated the award to his parents, especially his late father. How important do you see familial ties within his storytelling?
Dr. Sofia Laurent: Familial connections are central to Daoud’s narrative. His dedication speaks volumes about the emotional weight he carries from his heritage. In “Houris,” you can sense that family isn’t just a backdrop but rather a vessel through which broader societal themes are explored. His reflections on his family, particularly in relation to memory and loss, highlight the necessity of these ties in understanding one’s identity.
Alex Johnson: There’s also a notable political aspect to Daoud’s work. In your opinion, does he manage to convey complex political messages while still engaging his readers?
Dr. Sofia Laurent: Absolutely. Daoud’s brilliance lies in his ability to juxtapose political commentary with compelling storytelling. He addresses heavy topics—like the political landscape of Islamism—without alienating his audience. His characters resonate with readers, allowing them to engage with these complex issues on a deeper emotional level. This balance between narrative and politics is what makes his writing particularly impactful.
Alex Johnson: It seems Daoud has established himself as a significant voice in literary and socio-political discussions. How do you think this award will impact his future work and literary contributions?
Dr. Sofia Laurent: Winning the Goncourt Prize will undoubtedly raise Daoud’s profile, both in France and internationally. It provides him with a platform to reach a wider audience and to continue his explorations of identity, memory, and politics. I anticipate that he will delve even deeper into these themes, perhaps expanding his reach into more global discourses. This recognition may also inspire a new generation of writers who are navigating similar cultural complexities.
Alex Johnson: It sounds like we can expect even more from him in the future. Thank you, Dr. Laurent, for your insights into Kamel Daoud and his remarkable achievement. It’s always enlightening to discuss literature with someone who has such a thorough understanding.
Dr. Sofia Laurent: Thank you, Alex. It’s been a pleasure, and I’m eager to see how Daoud’s journey unfolds in the literary landscape. His voice is one we need to keep hearing.
