orlanda book

orlanda book by jacqueline harpman

delve into the captivating world of jacqueline harpmans orlanda, a remarkable novel that challenges perceptions of identity and self. this profound literary work, often categorized as psychological fiction or a unique blend of literary fantasy, resonates deeply with readers who enjoy exploring the complexities of the human psyche and gender identity. orlanda is a bewitching fable and an insightful dream, perfect for those fascinated by narratives of self-discovery and transformation, particularly fans of virginia woolfs orlando, to which it pays homage. originally published in 1996, with an english translation following in 1999, and recently reissued, this award-winning book earned the prestigious prix médicis, solidifying its place as a significant piece of contemporary literature. for those seeking compelling stories that delve into existential questions, orlanda offers a rich and rewarding reading experience. the isbn for a recent paperback edition is 9781644215166.

orlanda summary

jacqueline harpman’s orlanda unravels the extraordinary journey of aline berger, a prim and conventional thirty-five-year-old literature professor living in brussels. her life, marked by routine and a suppressed inner world, takes an unexpected turn one afternoon in a bustling paris train station. while struggling to reread virginia woolfs orlando, aline experiences a profound psychological event: her repressed alter ego, whom she names orlanda, splits off from her being and dramatically inhabits the body of a handsome, twenty-year-old rock journalist named lucien lefrène. this newly liberated orlanda is everything aline has consciously subdued: brash, boisterous, sexually adventurous, and utterly uninhibited. as orlanda embarks on a life of his own, dragging gleeful chaos in his wake, aline remains initially unaware of this seismic shift within her own psyche. however, as their paths intertwine, aline is compelled to confront the hidden desires and facets of her personality that she had long ignored. the novel brilliantly explores the fascinating dynamic between aline and her second self, forcing her to reckon with all the unacknowledged sides of her soul and ultimately inspiring a journey towards embracing her complete identity. this compelling plot makes orlanda a pivotal work for understanding complex character development and the fluid nature of self.

about the author jacqueline harpman

jacqueline harpman, a distinguished belgian francophone writer and psychoanalyst, was born in etterbeek, belgium, in 1929 and passed away in 2012. her early life was marked by the upheaval of world war ii, during which her family, being half jewish, fled to casablanca to escape nazi persecution, only returning to belgium after the war. harpman initially pursued french literature, then began training as a doctor, but health issues, specifically contracting tuberculosis, prevented her from completing her medical studies. she turned to writing in 1954, publishing her first work in 1958, though she later took a twenty-year hiatus from her literary career before resuming it with renewed vigor. in 1980, she qualified as a psychoanalyst, a profession that profoundly influenced the deep psychological insights present in her numerous novels. harpman authored over fifteen novels and garnered several prestigious literary accolades throughout her career, most notably the prix médicis for orlanda. her other celebrated works include the dystopian novel i who have never known men, which also achieved significant acclaim and was her first novel translated into english. jacqueline harpmans unique background as both a writer and a psychoanalyst lent an unparalleled depth to her exploration of identity, memory, and the human condition in her compelling fiction.

orlanda faq

1. what genre is orlanda by jacqueline harpman?

   jacqueline harpmans orlanda is primarily classified as psychological fiction and literary fiction, often featuring elements of fantasy. its lauded as a bewitching fable that delves into the exploration of identity, consciousness, and gender, making it a significant contribution to queer and lgbt literature as well.

2. what is the central concept or plot of orlanda?

   the core plot of orlanda revolves around aline berger, a reserved 35-year-old literature professor, whose repressed alter ego, orlanda, spontaneously detaches from her and inhabits the body of a 20-year-old man named lucien lefrène. this event sets in motion a compelling narrative where aline must confront this liberated, assertive version of herself, forcing her to reckon with her own suppressed desires and complete identity.

3. what important themes does jacqueline harpmans orlanda explore?

   the novel masterfully explores profound themes such as the fluidity of identity, the duality of the self, the nature of repressed desires, and the complexities of gender and sexuality. it delves into the integration of conscious and subconscious aspects of personality, prompting readers to consider what it means to be truly whole.

4. does orlanda have any connection to virginia woolfs novel orlando?

   absolutely, jacqueline harpmans orlanda directly engages with and references virginia woolfs iconic novel orlando. harpman utilizes intertextuality to play with and expand upon woolfs themes of shifting identities, gender transformation, and the passage of time, offering a modern, psychological take on these enduring literary concepts.

5. what notable awards has orlanda received?

   orlanda by jacqueline harpman was honored with the prestigious prix médicis in 1996. this significant french literary award recognizes authors "who have not yet achieved a reputation corresponding to their talent," further highlighting the novels critical acclaim and unique contribution to literature.