Barbery’s critically acclaimed novel focuses on the residents of 7
Rue de Grenelle in Paris, specifically twelve year old Paloma Josse, daughter
of wealthy parents, and Renée Michel, concierge for
the apartment block. Paloma’s narrative sections are labeled as ‘Profound
Thoughts’. Her first section is deeply philosophical and it is startling when
you realise it is a child speaking. She has decided to commit suicide on her
thirteenth birthday and to burn down the apartment. She aims to have and record
as many profound thoughts before this time as possible. She plays down her
intelligence at school, fearing she would get no peace if she showed her true
capabilities. In this she has something in common with Renée who hides her love of great literature and classical
music to maintain the façade of what she believes people expect from a
concierge.
Both characters are fairly isolated in their own
ways. Although Paloma lives with her parents and sister she does not feel part
of their world, considering their concerns superficial and shallow. Renée has lived alone since the death of
her husband, and in her refusal to show her true self is alone in her
interests. She does have one friend, Manuela, who works in the same block as a
cleaner but who hopes to leave France, much to the horror of Renée. Things begin to change when a long-term resident dies
and the mysterious Kakuro Ozu moves into the vacant apartment. He sees beyond Renée's façade and extends the hand of friendship, something
which she struggles to accept at first. Eventually their budding friendship
leads to Paloma and Renée finding kindred spirits
in each other.
It is touching to see Renée’s confidence grow and with it her happiness, though it
takes sharing some upsetting memories with Paloma before she is able to see
that all she has believed for many years may not be entirely true. These
revelations are an important moment for understanding her character and the
reasons behind her forced solitude. It is also heartening to see Paloma blossom
with her new friends, beginning to see the world in a difference light and
questioning her resolve to cut her life so short.
An interesting, unusual book which will
challenge the mind, make you smile, and at times frustrate. In parts
beautifully poetic, clearly borne of deep knowledge, it will toy with your emotions
until the end.
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