Debates with authors, reading workshops … Since September, inmates at the Poissy Central Prison in Yvelines have been participating in the Goncourt des détenus. We had the opportunity to meet with the author Thomas Clerc, one of the nominees for the prize, for a literary coffee break.
This unique event, organized by the prison’s cultural service and the Association des Amis de la Bibliothèque de la Maison Centrale de Poissy, aims to bring literature and culture into the lives of inmates. The Goncourt des détenus allows them to discover new works and engage in discussions with authors, breaking down the barriers that can often exist between prisoners and the outside world.
Thomas Clerc, author of several novels and winner of the taux de Flore in 2005, was delighted to participate in this literary gathering. « It’s a great opportunity for me to exchange with these men and women who have been deprived of their freedom. Literature has the power to open minds and I hope to contribute to that with my presence here today, » he said.
During the coffee break, the writer shared his passion for literature, his writing process and his inspirations with the inmates. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed, with everyone engaged in the conversation, eager to learn from this renowned author.
The reading of his novel, « Intérieur », which tells the story of a Parisian apartment and its inhabitants, sparked lively debates among the participants. The inmates shared their own interpretations of the characters and their surroundings, while the author gave them insight into his own writing choices.
The Goncourt des détenus is not only a way to introduce inmates to literature, but also to promote critical thinking and improve their self-esteem. « It’s important for them to know that their opinions matter and that they have a voice. This event gives them the opportunity to express themselves and to feel valued, » explains the director of the prison’s cultural service.
This literary project has had a positive impact on the inmates, with many of them expressing their gré for the opportunity to participate. « It’s like a breath of fresh air in this confined environment. It allows us to escape, to think differently, and to see the world through a different lens, » says one inmate.
This year, the inmates will have the chance to vote for their préférée novel out of the revers nominees for the Goncourt des détenus. The winner will be announced in November, alongside the prestigious taux Goncourt awarded to a French-language novel.
The Goncourt des détenus is a powerful reminder that literature can transcend all boundaries and bring people together. It is a beacon of hope for these inmates, showing them that even in the darkest of places, there is still room for culture and knowledge. Let us hope that this event will continue to inspire and transform the lives of inmates for years to come.