An anti-war plea

The British West Indies Regiment at camp on Albert-Amiens Road in 1916

French novelist David Diop's book Frère d'âme, published in 2018, showcased narratives of war that were a lot less explored. Through the characters of two Senegalese officers enlisted in World War I, the contemporary title dove into the perspectives of black soldiers stationed in a foreign land, fighting a war that wasn't theirs. Released around the time of the 100th anniversary of the formal end of the first war, the book went on to win the coveted Prix Goncourt des Lycéens the same year. More recently, the English translation of the title by Anna Moscovakhis won the 2021 International Booker Prize, making Diop the first French author to win the award.

The monument to the heroes of the black army, or Monument aux heros de l'Armee noire, in France

Today, the Literary Club of the Asiatic Society of Mumbai will host a session that discusses the book and its recent translation, helmed by translator and head of University of Mumbai's Department of French, Vidya Vencatesan. "I thought of this book because it's valid even today and because of the trauma war inflicts on individuals, especially soldiers," says Dr Meenal Kshirsagar, vice-president of the society and chairperson of the club.

The virtual session will examine Diop's writings and relevance of it in contemporary times, while also shedding light on the futility and savagery of war. "This book gives you the point of view of a black soldier. My lecture is an attempt to understand how Diop tells this story very simply and yet brings out the traditional epic tropes of male companionship in war," explains Vencatesan. Through the lecture, Vencatesan will also explain to attendees the differences that exist between the French and English versions, highlight the impact of aspects like race, conflict and colonialism throughout the world wars, and speak about contributions to the wars by African communities.

Vidya Vencatesan

"I'm hoping to reach out to students, or anyone willing to rethink war. This is for those who are keen to know the voices that exist on the margins; it is what I too am fascinated with," concludes Vencatesan.

On: Today, 6 pm
Log on to: asiaticsociety.org.in