Représenter la vieillesse au-delà du miroir : Nicole Houde, Les oiseaux de Saint-John Perse

Abstract

In her award-winning literary work, Nicole Houde explores the “marginal world of the forgotten.” In her novel Les oiseaux de Saint-John Perse (Governor General's Award 1995), she portrays an elderly couple living in an apartment in Montreal who will soon have to move to a “golden age manor.” Within the limited space of their apartment, which is preferable to exile in a retirement home, another character acts as a privileged witness to the couple's existence: the family caregiver, Josée. This article aims to explore the relationships that unite the three characters, as well as their relationship with interior and exterior space. In addition to enabling them to remain at home, Josée represents an opening to the outside world, a confidante, and a hope. Within the couple's enclosed world, she acts as a spectator, a guardian of failing memories, and a possible savior. This article aims to remind us of the importance of the bonds that help us navigate life's ups and downs. These elderly characters have not aged a day; they dream of travel, love, and freedom.