Abstract
In the first volume of Les lieux de mémoire (1984), Pierre Nora describes memory and history as non-synchronized oppositions in the modern world. In parallel to Nora's discussions, Antonine Maillet in Pélagie-la-charrette (1979) and Patrick Chamoiseau in Chronique des sept misères (1986) reveal that the presupposition of synchronization is a dangerous delusion. Indeed, this delusional presupposition of memory and history has induced the loss of cultural legacy among displaced populations in the New World. A comparison of Maillet's and Chamoiseau's novels suggests that the quest for the return to the native land is central to Pélagie-la-Charette, while the polyphonic narrative voice in Chronique des sept misères underscores the foolishness of such an enterprise. This contrast illustrates how these authors use narrative voices to amplify the imaginary in order to construct positive myths about communal histories and memories. The mythical narrative, stemming out of the Americas, stands as a counter account that opposes histories deemed 'official' by Western nations. While Chamoiseau and Maillet manipulate social and historical frameworks, they are simultaneously rewriting local stories, promoting new visions of History. In so doing, they also bring forth a conflictual relationship to space and territorial organization. Their endeavour reminds readers not only of colonialism's impact on the descendants of both slaves and colonists, but of the diversity among diasporic voices within the Americas.
Published Version
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