Colette's novella Gigi emerged from the shadows of World War II as a beacon of hope and nostalgia for a world ravaged by conflict. Published in 1944, amidst the turmoil of Nazi-occupied Europe, the story offered an escape to the idyllic belle époque of Paris—a time imbued with optimism, elegance, and the gentle grace of daily life. Through her vivid descriptions and characterizations, Colette masterfully crafted a narrative that celebrated the enduring beauty and strength of womanhood, providing solace to readers battered by war.

The Creation of a Fairy Tale

At nearly seventy, Colette turned her gaze to the past, crafting Gigi not as a mere escape but as a reminder of the timeless charm found in everyday life. Her storytelling transported readers to a Paris that was brimming with hope and splendor, where the simple joys of a warm cup of tea or a hearty plate of cassoulet revitalized the weary spirit. These details, seemingly small, acted as conduits to happier times, mirrored in the luxuries and comforts cherished by the characters—luxuries that were scarce in the reality of 1944.

The choice of sugar, controlled by the Lachaille family, as a central motif speaks volumes. In a world where even basic sustenance was often hard to secure, sugar symbolized not only sweetness but a semblance of normalcy and indulgence. Colette's narrative spun with this element, mingling material opulence with emotional sustenance, offering a fairy tale of light amidst the prevalent darkness.

Symbols of Elegance and Hope

Colette's Gigi is replete with symbols that highlight the elegance and beauty of the past. Through characters like Gaston, who brings champagne and pâté de foie gras, Colette underscores a world where opulence was within reach, and luxury was a part of the tapestry of life. The detailed descriptions of feminine clothing, such as the seven and a half yards of rustling fabric, evoke the vivid imagery of Impressionist paintings, capturing fleeting moments of beauty.

In the apartment of Aunt Alicia, time appears to stand still. Her surroundings, glistening with a kind of eternal elegance, defy the ravages of war. Silver walls, sparkling jewels, and a chinchilla-covered bed create a sanctuary where beauty perseveres despite the world's chaos, embodying Colette's belief that elegance remains unyielding through time.

Celebration of Womanhood

Central to Gigi is its celebration of womanhood and the intricate world in which women reside. Colette focuses on the nuances that make a woman admirable—the "turn of a wrist like a swan’s neck," the "tiny ear," and "the profile revealing a delicious kinship." In a world overshadowed by the grim realities of war, Gigi serves as an ode to the resilience and triumph of women. The novella closes with a hopeful vision for Gigi, a young schoolgirl on the cusp of a promising future, suggesting that brighter days lie ahead.

Colette's narrative is steeped in the feminine sphere, where Gigi is nurtured and advised by women who shape her worldview. Male presence is rare, embodied solely by "Tonton" Gaston, emphasizing the dominion of women in Gigi's life. Symbols of nourishment and domestic artistry highlight the sanctuaries women create, places where they wield influence and provide comfort.

Contrasts with Male Influence

The male figure, when introduced, is portrayed as an outsider—something to be catered to and occasionally endured. Aunt Alicia's rigorous beauty regimes are imparted to Gigi as vital lessons in the art of allure, subtly hinting at the lengths women must go to captivate and keep a man. The story of Liane d’Exelman, who predictably attempts suicide upon being discarded by Gaston, underscores the societal expectations placed on women in relationships...