Tempête, deux novellas by J.-M. G. Le Clézio

Abstract

This paper presents the latest work of J.-M. G. Le Clézio, which consists of two “novellas”, an unusual genre in French literature. While using a lot of autobiographical elements, Le Clézio tells one single story in these two writings: a story about a quest for origins, about wander- ing in confusion and loneliness, put in a context of an exotic faraway world. In this paper we deal with different motives such as the double nature of the sea and other natural elements, inextricably linked with the protagonists. We also treat the problems of identity and rape, as well as the dream, the obsession with the past and finally Le Clézio’s distinctive style. Both stories progress from the self-destruction to reinventing oneself, indispensable for reestablishing the harmony. The peace is finally achieved by reconciling with nature, in all of its omnipotence.