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René Depestre, a life of Literature and CommitmentRené Depestre
René Depestre, a life of Literature and Commitment
René Depestre
  • August 31, 2024
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René Depestre, a life of Literature and Commitment

René Depestre had his very first encounter with the Haitian sun on August 29, 1926 in Jacmel, a large coastal city in the southeast of Haïti that welcomed his birth. He completed his primary studies with the Brothers of Christian Instruction in Jacmel. After his father’s death in 1936, he left his mother and brothers and sisters to live with his maternal grandmother. He completed his secondary studies at the Alexandre Pétion high school in Port-au-Prince in 1944. Today, he resides in France, his country of naturalization for several decades, and remains an immense creative, intellectual spirit and great witness to a very important era in the history of men.

Le Jacmelien

Le Jacmelien

Marked by a religious education and the premature loss of his father, René Depestre’s youth in Jacmel was a fertile ground where this literary genius was able to successfully develop his immense creative spirit in his writings.

The influence of Jacmel in Depestre’s literary career is undeniable. Indeed, the hometown plays a crucial role in his work. The beauty of its beaches, the modesty of its young girls, and the great traditional myths of Haitian culture give a unique character to this place in his work. In his great novel "Hadriana dans tous mes rêves" (1988), Jacmel transcends its status as a city to become a metaphor for Haitian culture, its contradictions transforming into a romantic character. Through his stories, Depestre explores the nuances of his lost country, a homeland left behind because of poverty and policies that constantly push Haitians of his category elsewhere. If he leaves, as is planned in the Haitian calendar, Jacmel and the land of Haïti remain an unforgettable and irreplaceable place in his heart.

The Revolutionary Leader

The Revolutionary Leader

A young committed student, René Depestre is a key player in the revolutionary movement of January 1946, contributing to the fall of President Élie Lescot in Haiti. As leader of the student movement, he embodies the spirit of change and the hope of a new era for the country. This commitment will make him popular, propelling his name onto the Haitian political scene, particularly in the academic world.

Étincelles, his first collection of poetry, published in 1945, and prefaced by Edris Saint-Amand, quickly made him known. He was only nineteen when he published it, influenced by the marvelous realism of Alejo Carpentier, who had given a lecture on the subject in Haïti in 1942. Depestre then founded a weekly with three friends: Baker, Alexis, and Gérald Bloncourt: La Ruche (1945-46). "We wanted to help Haitians become aware of their ability to renovate the historical foundations of their identity" (he said in Le métier à métisser).

The Committed Exile

The Committed Exile

After the political repression that followed the 1946 revolution, Depestre began a long wandering around the world. Far from considering himself in exile, he saw himself more as a nomad with multiple roots. Settled in Paris, Prague, Chile, Italy and then Cuba in 1959, where he was invited by Nicolás Guillén, and expelled by the dictator Batista, then returned to Cuba after the revolution under the invitation of Che. There, he distinguished himself to the rank of minister in Castro’s Cuba and actively participated in the cultural management of the country while continuing to build his poetic work. His life in exile was also marked by significant encounters with influential figures in the South American and African literary world, such as Pablo Neruda, Jorge Amado, and Henri Lopes.

His travels across Europe, Latin America and Asia testify to his constant quest for freedom and truth for himself and for humanity.

The Port-au-Prince Book Fair announces the opening of author registration for its second edition

The Port-au-Prince Book Fair is a literary initiative of the cultural organization Port-au-Prince Book Fair (OCSLP), based on the desire to promote Haitian culture in general, with a particular focus on literature. The organizers of the event have just announced the registration of authors, who will number 20, and those of publishing houses, who will number 5 for the second edition, which will take place on Friday, December 13, 2024, in the premises of the French Institute in Haiti. The registration deadline is Thursday, October 10 of this year. Please note that the first to arrive who have met the required criteria will be eligible to take part in this second edition of the event, according to the organizers’ admission. This rigorous and restricted selection of only 20 authors aims to guarantee an enriching experience for authors and the public, thus promoting authentic exchanges around the works presented. Independent authors and publishing houses interested in registering their authors to participate in this second edition of the fair are invited to submit their application via this link: https://form.jotform.com/louirardjohn8/salon-du-livre-de-port-au-prince. For publishing and distribution houses planning to exhibit on the day of the event, you can register by clicking on this link: https://form.jotform.com/242596699603068. You are requested to contact them at the following address: salondulivre2023@gmail.com in case of difficulties. The Port-au-Prince Book Fair remains faithful to its philosophy, which is to offer a platform to young authors and to promote the richness of Haitian literary production, by supporting new authors who contribute to its growth. This event is a continuation of the first edition, aimed at allowing the emergence of an environment conducive to exchanges, where young authors can meet, share their experiences and engage in dialogue with readers and book professionals. According to the organizers of the event, your participation as a young author will be essential to enrich the fair and offer a diverse experience to visitors. The invitation to join this noble initiative is extended to young authors who have not yet published 5 books. You who are concerned, the ball is now in your court. Do not hesitate to go and make this day, December 13, 2024, an unforgettable day for all book lovers.

The Immense Writer

The Immense Writer

René Depestre is a writer with multiple talents. His works include poetry collections such as "A Rainbow for the Christian West" (1967) and novels such as "Hadriana in All My Dreams" (1988). His awards include the Prix Goncourt de la Nouvelle for "Alléluia pour une femme-jardin" (1980) and the Prix Apollinaire de poésie for "Anthologie personnel" (1993). His literary career is also marked by important essays, including "Bonjour et adieu à la négritude", which presents a reflection on his ambivalent position towards the négritude movement founded by Léopold Sédar Senghor, Aimé Césaire and Léon-Gontran Damas. Although impressed by Aimé Césaire and his discourse on surrealism and négritude, Depestre questions the concept of négritude in this work.

Depestre, Césaire and Morin

Depestre, Césaire and Morin

Depestre’s name deserves its place among the most illustrious thinkers of his time, along with Aimé Césaire and Edgar Morin. Depestre, although influenced by Césaire’s Negritude movement, develops a more nuanced vision through his works. Edgar Morin, whose work focuses on the complexity of modern society, shares with Depestre a political journey enriched by a long sense of commitment to just causes. In addition, all three men were involved in communism before distancing themselves from the movement because of the regimes of terror, such as the one led by Stalin at the head of the USSR, which characterized and embodied it throughout the 20th century.

At 98, René Depestre remains an essential figure in Haitian, French-speaking and world literature. His journey, deeply marked by exile, political commitment and an unwavering attachment to his Haitian roots, illustrates how personal life and social commitment can merge to create an exceptional literary work. To this day, Réne remains and continues to be a living legend who inspires. A presentable Haitian figure, symbolizing excellence spanning the long term.

Pity or the work of an old soul crushed under the weight of an absinthe-flavored existence

The word crisis carries an infinite number of meanings. No intention of revealing them all this afternoon. However, a few clarifications are necessary. A kid whose parents do not have enough money at Christmas to buy her a Little Black Mermaid doll has a fit and locks herself in her room without touching her meals for the day. A boy whose dog was suddenly poisoned by a neighbor in revenge or shot after contracting rabies, losing a faithful friend overnight, enters into crisis. Finally, a society in the grip of all sorts of mutations and whose leaders are weak, perhaps prolonged in a deep crisis. In the first case, the young girl sulks to attract the attention of her parents in order to feel appreciated by children her age at school or in the neighborhood. Today, thirty minutes of negotiations can be enough to find a lasting solution. In my day, a few well-aimed belt blows would have overcome this whim. But, humanity evolves, they say. In the second case, this boy can find his smile again after a few weeks. He needs a little attention and, probably, another dog. As Stendhal would say, only passion triumphs over passion. In the last case, this society led by inepts is shaken to its deep foundations. Its institutions can disintegrate one by one. The vital forces dissolve in no time. This situation creates a societal tsunami that destroys all life within this community. It is indeed a crisis. The crisis from this point of view constitutes an alarming, desperate situation in the existence of a community where nothing is going well. Chaos reigns supreme. The very essence of life disappears. The individual can take precedence over the community. Everyone tries to solve their problems without worrying about others. The closest neighbor is relegated light years away from you. How can we turn to creation? How can we continue to conceive of otherness? How can the artist absorb this great collective disarray as a source of motivation? These are the questions I must answer. An artist sees and feels what ordinary mortals cannot even imagine in a thousand-year life. He creates to denounce, when his conscience as a human being is revolted. He exalts heroes or the homeland according to his feelings. He sings the beauty of an irresistible, captivating or ugly resplendent woman. He can also use the ambient desolation to give meaning to life. Creating in literature as in the arts in general does not depend on the situation. The act of creation depends on the creator’s disposition. Events paralyze some and galvanize others. Creating is enjoyable. Everyone therefore enjoys according to their own whim. Writing opens the way to change. The writer takes a different look at the world. By embedding himself in reality, he embellishes it, makes it better or hideous depending on the message he intends to share. All things considered, with him, life is never fixed. Writing is putting the world in a jar to travel the universe. The artist broods over his work in all weathers. Oswald Durand was delighted to see Choucoune’s beautiful body from his secret observatory. Musset, on the other hand, was in pain writing his October night. As for Dany Laferrière, in exile, he described the horrors of the Duvalier dictatorship and the carefree attitude of the young girls in his neighborhood in this violent and dangerous world. Ultimately, the writer lives in a society with values ​​that he shares or not. They condition his existence or have no hold on him. In many ways, the surrounding world serves as his laboratory. He carries out his experiments there. He casts a new, worn, disillusioned, melancholic, violent, bitter look at the world depending on his mood. Pitié is the work of an old soul crushed under the weight of an existence that tastes of absinthe. Young Mike Bernard Michel lives by expedients and lies. The hands of life fall on him with indescribable violence. Misfortune embraces him day and night. Should we give up? Musset liked to say: "Man is an apprentice, pain is his master. And no one knows himself until he has suffered." The artist must produce under all skies. Such is his vocation. Incompetents in power, legal or highway bandits, the high cost of living, unemployment, heartaches are all subjects of concern for him. If it is true that a hungry belly has no ears, the fact remains that it keeps the brain awake. What am I saying, it stimulates it to the point of creating timeless works. Mr. Pitié, you have a bright future ahead of you. Work of Jean Rony Charles, the book is available from Éditions Repérage.

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Moise Francois

Journalist editor, poet and apprentice lawyer.

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Plan your trip to Haïti

Haïti, the pearl of the Caribbean nestled west of the island of Hispaniola, offers a captivating combination of natural beauty and rich history. For an unforgettable trip, follow these wise tips to plan your stay. b~Prior Research~b Before you begin your trip, immerse yourself in Haïti’s rich culture, fascinating history, delicious cuisine and top attractions. This prior immersion will allow you to make the most of your stay and connect more easily with locals. b~Ideal time to travel~b Haïti’s mild climate throughout the year makes it an attractive tourist destination at any time. Your choice of period will depend on your preferences. If you’re passionate about cultural festivities, don’t miss the Haïtian Carnival in February, a vibrant celebration leading up to Lent. For lovers of paradise beaches like Labadee, La Côte des Arcadins, and others, summer offers a perfect mix of sun and fun times in crystal clear waters. If spirituality appeals to you, August 15 marks the Feast of the Assumption, a religious celebration marking the Virgin Mary’s ascension into heaven. And also November 1st and 2nd are dedicated to the Day of the Dead. Families go to the cemetery to honor and decorate the graves of their deceased loved ones, creating an atmosphere steeped in memory and tradition. History buffs may choose to visit on national holidays such as National Independence Day on January 1, Flag Day on May 18, and other significant events. b~Choice of Accommodation~b Haïti offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to family-friendly B&Bs. Adapt your choice according to your budget and preferences, favoring local accommodation for a more authentic experience. b~Unmissable Tourist Sites~b Among the gems to explore, discover the majestic Citadelle Laferrière, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, the Sans Souci Palace, the La Visite National Park, the Milot Cathedral, Fort Jacques, the Heroes of Vertières, the Bassin Bleu , the Saut-Mathurine Waterfall, the Marie-Jeanne Cave, Kenscoff and Furcy, as well as the Saut d’Eau Waterfall. Also explore the artistic wealth of Haïti through its artisan markets. b~Taste Local Cuisine~b Haïtian cuisine is a symphony of exotic flavors. Be sure to sample local dishes such as griot and pea-sticky rice at local markets for an authentic culinary experience. b~Local Culture~b Haïtian culture, influenced by a rich history, is diverse and vibrant. Respect local customs, be open-minded and willing to learn. The warmth and hospitality of the Haïtians add a unique dimension to your experience. b~Means of Transport~b Opt for modern means of land transport such as Capital Coach Line, Transport Chic, Sans-Souci Tours, Le Transporteur, Grand Nord. For aerial explorers, easily book your flight with Sunrise Airways. Car rental is also an option for those looking for a more private experience. b~Language and Communication~b Although Haïtian Creole is the main language, French is also widely used. Learn a few basic phrases in Creole to facilitate exchanges and enrich your experience. By meticulously planning your trip to Haïti, you open yourself up to discovering the natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality of this Caribbean gem. Get ready to experience a unique and memorable adventure in Haïti.

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History

History

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.