Podcast Summary: Totally Booked with Zibby – Episode Featuring Anne Berest on "Gabrielle"
Episode: Anne Berest, GABRIËLE
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Host: Zibby Owens
Guest: Anne Berest, Author of "Gabrielle" and "The Postcard"
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes French author Anne Berest to discuss her latest novel, "Gabrielle," alongside her acclaimed previous work, "The Postcard." Anne's journey from her bestselling translated works to her deep dives into family history and identity sets the stage for an engaging conversation about literature, heritage, and personal growth.
Background and Previous Work
Anne Berest introduces herself as a French writer living in Paris, known for her national bestseller "The Postcard." This book delves into her family's history, uncovering hidden stories from World War II. Anne shares her gratitude towards her American readers and the support from book clubs and booksellers in bringing her work to a broader audience.
Notable Quote:
"Can you imagine what does it mean for a French writer, first to be translated in English and then to have all these readers here in America? You cannot imagine how it's so strong and emotional for me, it's like a dream."
[04:36] Anne Berest
Deep Dive into "The Postcard"
Zibby Owens explores the essence of "The Postcard," where Anne investigates an anonymous postcard her mother received in 2003. The postcard contained only four first names—those of Anne's grandparents and relatives who perished during the Holocaust. This mystery propelled Anne into a journey of discovery about her family's past and her own Jewish identity.
Notable Quote:
"The postcard tells the story of this postcard, the true story of this postcard. My mother received in 2003, an anonymous postcard with only four first names written on it."
[06:01] Anne Berest
Exploring Jewish Identity
The conversation shifts to Anne’s exploration of her Jewish identity, a recurring theme in her works. Anne discusses how questioning and understanding her heritage has been a lifelong quest, influenced by her secular upbringing.
Notable Quote:
"For me, being Jewish, it means maybe spending my whole life asking to myself, what does that mean to be Jewish?"
[07:28] Anne Berest
Writing "Gabrielle" and Family Dynamics
Anne elaborates on her new novel, "Gabrielle," which uncovers the life of Gabriel Buffet, an influential yet obscure figure in 20th-century avant-garde art. The novel portrays the complex relationship between Gabrielle and the artist Picasso, highlighting themes of creativity, personal sacrifice, and the burdens of legacy.
Zibby notes the structural brilliance of "Gabrielle," particularly its non-linear narrative that intertwines past and present, emphasizing the weight of inherited trauma and the influence of ancestors on one's identity.
Notable Quote:
"If you work on your family tree, you will find a lot of coincidences who are maybe not coincidences, but how, for example, how we are given the first names in your family, what does that mean?"
[14:40] Anne Berest
Inherited Trauma and Family Tree Therapy
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on family tree therapy—a concept Anne encountered during a personal depression. She explains how understanding her ancestors' lives helped her address her own emotional burdens, illustrating the profound impact of inherited trauma.
Notable Quote:
"I try to understand, not only for me, but for everybody, how you are influenced by things that happen before you."
[15:48] Anne Berest
Artistic Relationships and Collaboration
Anne delves into the intricate relationships between artists like Gabrielle and Picasso. She highlights the importance of collaboration and support systems in the creative process, challenging the myth of the solitary genius. Anne emphasizes that even the most celebrated artists relied on close partners to bring out their best work.
Notable Quote:
"Writers know that, painters know that, musicians know that you need one, two persons around you."
[26:06] Anne Berest
Collaborative Writing with Her Sister
Discussing her writing process, Anne shares how she co-authored "The Postcard" with her sister. This collaboration involved a unique method where each wrote alternating chapters, leading to a harmonious blend of perspectives and styles. The experience not only strengthened their bond but also enriched the storytelling.
Notable Quote:
"We started to write a chapter. I wrote a chapter, she wrote a chapter and then we exchanged and I rewrote what she had written and she rewrote what I have written."
[34:35] Anne Berest
Impact on Personal Life and Relationships
Anne reflects on how her research and writing have influenced her personal life. Engaging deeply with her family's past has altered her relationships and self-perception, instilling a sense of continuity and responsibility toward her ancestors.
Notable Quote:
"I really think that they are on my shoulders. I really think that they are talking to me."
[29:21] Anne Berest
Advice for Aspiring Authors and Researchers
When asked for advice, Anne encourages others to diligently search for their roots, assuring them that traces of their ancestors are always present and can be uncovered with perseverance and intuition. She underscores the value of understanding one's heritage as a means to personal healing and growth.
Notable Quote:
"Everybody leaves a trace. Even you think it's impossible. I will find nothing. No, no, no."
[37:12] Anne Berest
Future Projects and Conclusion
Looking ahead, Anne hints at her next project focused on the resistance network during the war, expanding the narrative universe she has created. Zibby expresses excitement for Anne's future works, commending her for providing an enriching and educational dialogue.
Notable Quote:
"We want to write about... we can write a novel just about the network."
[36:01] Anne Berest
Closing Remarks
Zibby Owens concludes the episode by thanking Anne Berest for sharing her profound insights and storytelling prowess. She encourages listeners to engage with Anne's work and support literary exploration.
Final Thoughts:
This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby offers a deep and thoughtful exploration of Anne Berest's literary journey, weaving together themes of family history, identity, and the collaborative nature of creativity. Anne’s dedication to uncovering and understanding her heritage provides listeners with both inspiration and a poignant reminder of the enduring influence of our ancestors.
Note: All quotes are attributed with their respective timestamps from the transcript to maintain accuracy and context.