Éric Chacour - What I Know About You Q&A

Why It Matters

The nomination spotlights the market power of translated literature and validates the cultural relevance of diaspora narratives, influencing publishing strategies and reader expectations worldwide.

Key Takeaways

• Shortlisted for Dublin Literary Award, rare for French‑Canadian novelist.
• Translator Pablo Strauss praised for meticulous, collaborative translation work.
• Libraries and librarians credited for early support and book promotion.
• Novel draws on personal Egypt memories and diverse forms of love.
• Highlights adult immaturity rooted in unresolved childhood fears.

Summary

Éric Chacour announced his shortlisting for the prestigious Dublin Literary Award, a rare accolade for a French‑speaking novelist based in North America. He emphasized the honor not only for himself but also for his translator, Pablo Strauss, whose careful, collaborative effort brought the work to an English‑speaking audience.

Chacour highlighted the pivotal role of libraries and librarians, crediting them with early advocacy and promotion before the book gained broader attention. He traced the novel’s thematic roots to his personal experiences in Egypt—both the contemporary country he visits and the mythic Egypt of his parents’ stories—interweaving narratives of love across gender and familial lines.

The author reflected on the human condition, noting that adults often act like children, driven by lingering adolescent fears and a desire for revenge over early humiliations. He described this as a universal truth rather than a flaw, suggesting maturity is a continual negotiation with one’s past.

For the literary community, Chacour’s nomination underscores the growing visibility of translated works and the importance of cultural bridges. It also signals that stories rooted in specific diasporic experiences can resonate globally, encouraging publishers to invest in diverse voices and nuanced translations.

Original Description

Check out our Q&A with Éric Chacour, author of What I Know About You, as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey as a writer.