| Daniel Poliquin, author of various novels, short stories and essays, is a key reference for one who studies Franco-Ontarian literature. In this thesis, we will argue that there is an evolution in the treatment of space and time in three of Poliquin's novels: L'Obomsawin (Obomsawin of Sioux Junction) (1987), L'homme de paille (The Straw Man) (1998) and La kermesse (A Secret Between Us) (2006). From the first novel to the last, the author lessens the importance of spatial questions and gives more attention to questions related to time. This evolution goes along with a gradual depoliticization and individualization of space and time in the novel. Therefore, if L'Obomsawin is a strongly politicized novel written for the Franco-Ontarian cause, La kermesse, on the other hand, puts the spotlight on the individual, independent from its location and capable of living a time that is complete---past, present and future. |
