I do not wish to explain my passion—that would imply that it was a mistake or some disorder I need to justify—I just want to describe it.
― Annie Ernaux, Simple PassionYet it is that surreal, almost non-existent last visit that gives my passion its true meaning, which is precisely to be meaningless, and to have been for two years the most violent and unaccountable reality ever.
― Annie Ernaux, Simple Passion
At best, I’m ambivalent about this story. The writing is gorgeous. And the topic is so good. Not a single word is wasted. As a reader, I am right alongside the protagonist the entire way. The feelings and experience of a middle-aged woman engaging in an affair is not something I’ve been able to read about. And, if I were asked a book to recommend with the same themes, I would probably recommend this one as I cannot think of other ones right now.
The thing that makes this story captivating is that it is not told with any sort of shame or longing. It is a joyful story. Yes, the protagonist knows that each time she meets her lover, it may be the last. However, the way she describes the way this anticipation and excitement makes her feel is so relatable.
There is no hint of remorse. Even though the outcome is bittersweet, the protagonist looks back fondly on the entire experience. However, as a reader, I am held apart. Everything is in the past. There is no anguish really. The best way I can describe this story is clinical. This does not mean that it is boring, but there are no real stakes.
As the quote above says, the point is not to explain the passion. Instead, the story is meant to describe it.
In summary, read this story for gorgeous phrasing and ambiance. However, the overall story left me feeling entirely disengaged.