Michel Jean Discusses “Kabasa”: “Each Book is a Personal Challenge”
Michel Jean’s latest novel, “Kabasa,” was released recently, exploring themes of indigenous resistance. This work builds on his earlier book, “Tsunamis,” published two years prior but largely overlooked. In “Kabasa,” Jean revisits and reinterprets his protagonist, Jean-Nicholas Legendre, a journalist grappling with personal turmoil while covering the devastating tsunami in Sri Lanka in 2005.
Background of “Kabasa”
The title “Kabasa” refers to the yellow sturgeon, a symbol for the Abénaki people of Odanak. The novel unfolds along the Saint-François River, where Legendre reflects on his past and cultural heritage. A significant encounter with the Tamil Tigers in Sri Lanka leads him to draw parallels between their struggles and those of indigenous populations in Canada.
Exploring Indigenous Resistance
Jean discusses the concept of indigenous resistance, linking historical events like the Oka Crisis to current challenges faced by Native peoples in Canada. He articulates a deep concern for protecting territories and cultural identities. Jean reflects, “Every book is a personal challenge,” emphasizing the importance of addressing these significant social issues through his writings.
Artistic Evolution
Having transitioned from journalism to full-time writing, Jean has found a newfound freedom to explore topics that resonate with him personally. He acknowledges the limitations he faced earlier in his career when addressing indigenous struggles, stating that his initial writing lacked the depth he now seeks to convey.
Upcoming Projects
Following “Kabasa,” Jean is finalizing a collective work set for release in the spring. This project aims to provide a platform for indigenous voices to share diverse perspectives on love. Additionally, he expresses intentions to delve into more personal narratives in his future novels, focusing on his mother’s experiences as an Indigenous person.
Cultural Connections
Jean’s participation in the Göteborg Book Fair in Sweden highlighted shared experiences between indigenous peoples in different regions. He recognizes the universality of minority struggles, reinforcing the importance of solidarity among different indigenous communities.
“Kabasa” consists of 208 pages and invites readers to reflect on the ongoing significance of indigenous rights and the complex interplay of identity, heritage, and personal challenges faced by these communities. Through this novel, Michel Jean continues to champion the need for awareness and understanding of indigenous issues in contemporary society.
