1 heure avec... David Foenkinos

This episode of "1H Avec," presented by Bernard Montiel on RFM, features an interview with young writer, screenwriter, and filmmaker David Foenkinos. Montiel introduces Foenkinos as someone recognized for his light, sensitive, and deeply human style, creating a unique universe that blends subtle humor, melancholy, and sharp observations of emotions. He is known for his accessible and subtle writing, which captures human fragilities gently and offers stories where emotion arises from sincerity and detail. Foenkinos is celebrated for his ability to create characters that resonate deeply with readers, making them feel touched and directly addressed. The conversation centers around Foenkinos's latest novel, "Je suis Drôle" (I Am Funny), which has just been released. Montiel highlights several themes explored in the book, including believing in one's dreams, sadness, melancholy, the act of leaving a loved one out of love, and the lasting impact of childhood on our lives. He describes Foenkinos's characters as "touchable" and the narratives as "terribly overwhelming," "humain," and "touchable." Foenkinos expresses his gratitude for these compliments, emphasizing the importance of writing stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end that readers want to follow. He explains that while he works extensively with writing and the specificities of the novel form, the feedback that his books are hard to put down is always touching. The novel "Je suis Drôle" follows the journey of its protagonist, Gustave Bonsoir, from childhood through his professional life, detailing his various adventures. Montiel notes that the book is an "éducation" novel, tracing Gustave's development. A significant portion of the interview delves into the theme of humor, which is central to the novel's title. Foenkinos explores humor as a means of connection, a defense mechanism, and a way to express oneself, even in difficult or hostile situations. He likens humor to a language that facilitates a "doux rapport" (gentle relationship) and can even be a form of dignity in the face of adversity. He references the idea of humor as "la politesse du désespoir" (the politeness of despair), suggesting that comedians often mask sadness or melancholy with their performances, seeking consolation through audience appreciation. Foenkinos sees humor as a necessary tool in a difficult and violent era, and his character Gustave uses it as a mask to exist in the eyes of others, driven by a complicated past and a childhood need to be funny to be acknowledged. Gustave seeks laughter and a direct connection, a form of validation, and this need is evident from a childhood scene where he realizes being funny is essential for his existence. The conversation then shifts to the "Musée de la Tristesse" (Museum of Sadness), a concept that arises in the second part of the book. Foenkinos reveals that he considered this as a potential title for the novel, highlighting the connection between humor and sadness. He explains that while the "Musée de la Tristesse" is an imagined exhibition of melancholic stories, music, and films, it is inspired by a real museum in Zagreb, the "Musée de la Séparation" (Museum of Separation). This museum showcases objects and letters related to lost love, serving as a place for those experiencing heartbreak to share their sorrow. Foenkinos suggests that experiencing sadness, like watching a sad movie, can be cathartic and even beneficial, similar to the emotional release found in laughter. His character, Gustave, finds himself in this "Musée de la Tristesse" in the book. Foenkinos describes the novel as a "mélange de drôle et de triste" (mix of funny and sad) and an "éducation" novel, following Gustave's journey through his early twenties. This period is characterized by experimentation, uncertainty, and the struggle to find one's place in life and society. The book portrays a mix of wanderings and dreams, with Gustave determined to believe in his dreams "coûte que coûte" (whatever the cost), despite mistakes and illusions. Montiel expresses his deep attachment to Gustave, finding him profoundly touching and the character's journey deeply interesting. He notes that the character's struggles, particularly his fragility and lack of confidence, are relatable. Foenkinos explains that he tries to love his characters, and he has a particular tenderness for Gustave because, even in failure, he persists in believing in himself. Gustave's journey involves recomposing his past and seeking to understand himself, which Foenkinos believes is a prerequisite for truly connecting with others. He calls it an "initiation parcours" (initiation journey) where one must meet oneself before meeting others. Interestingly, Foenkinos reveals a personal paradox: the more he writes, the less he feels he encounters himself, and the more he disperses. He acknowledges that his books often become autobiographical in retrospect, with unconscious elements revealing themselves after publication. The interview touches upon the inspiration for Gustave's character, with Foenkinos mentioning John Lennon and his difficult childhood, abandonment, and eventual search for his mother. He draws parallels between Lennon's public persona and his inner fragility, a theme that resonates with Gustave. Foenkinos also notes the recurring presence of "two Polonais" (two Poles) in his books, a detail stemming from his first novel written before his publishing success. He also mentions an admiration for musician Billy Joel, whose life also involved suffering and complications, further illustrating his interest in the personal stories and fragilities of artists. The conversation then moves to the idea of "the catastrophe of success" and the "happiness of being sad," quoting Henri Calais: "Do not shake me, I am full of tears." Foenkinos shares that his novel explores the idea of accepting failures without burdening others, citing Gustave's decision to leave his love, Margot, due to pressure as a "marvellous act of love." He emphasizes that sometimes breaking up is a way to protect the other person from one's own suffering. Foenkinos also discusses the influence of his wife and children on his understanding of humor. He observes how his daughter, despite her young age, is captivated by short, attention-grabbing videos, reflecting a modern trend towards humor as a means of connection. He sees a widespread desire among the new generation to be funny, leading to a surge in comedy clubs and a general focus on humor. The interview concludes with Montiel strongly recommending "Je suis Drôle," describing it as "very touchable, passionnant" and an absolute joy to read. He thanks Foenkinos for his participation, and the show announces its next guest, Philippe Croison.