Les représentations corporelles allusives de Jacqueline Harpman
The allusive bodily representations of Jacqueline Harpman

Summary/Abstract: This paper explores the ways in which the Belgian writer Jacqueline Harpman represents the body by avoiding the direct naming of certain body parts and somatic experiences. First, we define the notion of “allusive body representation” and describe our analytical method. Second, we examine the expressive potential of this sort of representation by analysing a few texts. We focus on three aspects: strategies of avoiding direct naming, encyclopedic knowledge required by text interpretation and ways in which the text helps to establish connections between what is said and what is suggested. The two types of meaningful elements – in praesentia and in absentia – that contribute to the success of the allusive body representations are of equal interest to us. Finally, we point out that the allusive body representations are also a testimony to the uniqueness of the Belgian writer’s work. We show that, in spite of the substitutions and circumlocutions they operate, her allusions do not hide the body. Instead of concealing the body, forbidden to the eye and language, they draw the reader’s attention to it. The allusive body representations are not real blanks scattered throughout the text. By emphasizing the link between what is said and what is implied, Jacqueline Harpman turns the avoidance strategies into intellectual dialogues with the reader. Thus, the interpretative experience is enriched.

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