A Tale of Two Eras

Though War saw the light of day in 1985, it draws its essence from the writings of 1944. This duality offers readers a distinctive glimpse into Duras's evolving literary journey. At its heart lies a plot steeped in classic tradition, woven from threads of personal reminiscences. Yet, the narrative sparkles with the hallmarks of Duras's later style: a simplicity in syntax that speaks volumes, daring abstractions, and jarring yet mesmerizing juxtapositions.

The Melody and the Monologue

The concluding tale, "Aurelia Paris," stands out with its lyrical rhythms and rich dialogue. Throughout the book, the importance of interior monologue is palpable, reaching its zenith in the opening section. Duras's writing is charged with intensity, often laced with irony and consistently brimming with passion. Her prose, much like her other creations, is distilled into a haunting melody, challenging to encapsulate in translation. Yet, Barbara Bray, a seasoned translator of Duras's novels, masterfully captures its essence, bringing the original's spirit to life.

Duras transformed "Aurelia Paris" into a mesmerizing stage production. For a fortnight in January 1984, Gerard Desarthe delivered an extraordinary rendition in the cozy confines of the Petite Salle at Theatre du Rond-Point in Paris.