In The Absence Of Men

Philippe Besson

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Review

Vincent de L’Etoile is sixteen, with black hair, green eyes and - as he is at pains to tell us - no morals.  In the summer of 1916, he is introduced to a great writer (think France, think asthma), thirty years his senior, and, under the watchful eyes of the boy’s parents, the two become friends.  At the same time, Vincent begins an intense physical affair with Arthur, a soldier on leave from the Front.

This highly original, witty and absorbing novel was published to great acclaim in France in 2001.  Although its central theme is the nature of love and friendship between men, it is the identity of the famous writer which really adds spice to the story and Besson handles the biographical details with assurance and even daring: the title itself, which hardly describes the contents, given the presence of men throughout, in its slightly convoluted construction, is a pastiche.  Although the character of Vincent is ultimately not wholly convincing – principally because he seems too wise and articulate for his age – the narrative is sufficiently compelling to carry the reader along.

Besson deserves praise for the sheer inventiveness and verve of this book; the text, of course, stands alone perfectly well, but this is a must for all lovers of Proust. - review by Dan Fenton