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The Vagabond

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The book “The Vagabond” by Colette is a story set in early 20th century France, following the life of a woman named Renee who chooses a path of self-reliance as a stage performer. The narrative delves into Renee’s struggles for independence, her past relationships, and her internal conflicts about love and freedom. The book offers beautiful descriptions of places, people, and internal moods, capturing the essence of solitude, freedom, and the complexities of human emotions. Despite being a new translation, some readers found the writing style to be charming and engaging, reflecting Colette’s unique flair in storytelling.

Characters:

The characters are richly drawn, particularly the protagonist, Renee, whose psychological depth reflects her struggles with love and independence.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by beautifully descriptive language, engaging metaphors, and an ability to connect with contemporary readers despite its early 20th-century context.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around a woman's quest for independence and identity, highlighting her relationships and the challenges of being a performer.

Setting:

The setting is early 20th century France, particularly the vibrant yet challenging environment of Parisian performance venues.

Pacing:

The pacing is deliberate and slow, allowing for deep exploration of the main character's thoughts and feelings.
What’s wrong with me tonight? . . . It’s the glacial December fog, all spangles of frost in suspension, which vibrates around the gas lamps in an iridescent halo, which melts on your lips with a taste...

Notes:

The Vagabond was Colette's first book and showcases her skill as a writer.
Colette is considered one of France's greatest writers.
The story reflects the real struggles and charm of being an entertainer, drawn from Colette's own experiences.
Set in early 20th-century France, the main character Renee is a vaudeville dancer.
Renee struggles with loneliness and the impact of her broken marriage.
The novel addresses themes of independence and the challenges faced by women.
Colette's writing is noted for being simple yet descriptive and charming.
The book mirrors Colette's own life and challenges, including her views on independence.
The translation of The Vagabond has faced criticism for using modern American slang.
Despite translation issues, the book remains relatable and poignant to modern readers.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Themes of divorce and loneliness may act as triggers for some readers, as they reflect the protagonist's emotional turmoil.

Has Romance?

The story contains elements of romance, but it primarily focuses on the protagonist's inner conflict regarding love and independence.

From The Publisher:

From the author of Gigi comes this tale of 33-year-old Renée Néré, recently divorced and seeking a new life as a vaudeville performer. Maxime, a wealthy playboy, tempts her from the path of independence with the comforts of love and marriage. From the physical and psychological distance of a provincial tour, Renée reflects upon the conflicting needs of security and freedom.

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