Reviewed by David Brizer
Discover the novel Prétend by Arielle Burgdorf, published by End of the Line Press in January 2024. This 159-page paperback can be identified by ISBN: 9781738178414.
Arielle Burgdorf crafts a thought-provoking narrative in Prétend, delving into the evolution of various worlds and lives. The protagonist, Jean, a translator fluent in French, English, and Russian, undergoes a profound transformation as she transitions from Paris and London to Montréal. Along this journey, she discards multiple personas and cultures effortlessly, with translation becoming more akin to unraveling the intricacies of a word. Ventures with Konstantin, a self-proclaimed Russian poet, escalate from a passionate fling to an unexpected marriage, binding Jean closer to a mundane reality she never foresaw. Renaming herself as John post-marriage adds another layer to her intricate identity.
Seeking refuge in Canada, Jean embarks on a lucrative translation project for Montréal artist Mélusine, a revelation that intertwines her life further. Burgdorf skillfully weaves a complex narrative where settings, perspectives, names, and emotions intermingle and transform, offering readers a mesmerizing experience.
Immersing readers in vibrant atmospheres, Burgdorf’s vivid descriptions evoke the essence of Paris through nods to iconic figures like Serge Gainsbourg and Georges Perec. The narrative dances through settings like clubs and museums, painting a colorful backdrop to Jean’s tumultuous journey. Konstantin’s flawed character adds tension, unveiling layers of mistranslations and emotional discord within the relationships portrayed.
As Jean’s path converges with Mélusine’s, the narrative delves deeper into themes of cultural appropriation, gender fluidity, and evolving identities. Burgdorf masterfully navigates these complex themes, reviving classic motifs in a fresh, contemporary light.
About the reviewer: David Allen Brizer is a New York City-based author and book critic. His insightful articles and reviews have graced publications such as The New York Times, The New England Journal of Medicine, and The American Journal of Psychiatry, among others. Known for his fiction and non-fiction works, Brizer’s literary contributions continue to captivate readers and literary enthusiasts worldwide.
