Two related novels, Duo and Le Toutounier, are works of the french novelist Colette’s mature genius. First published in France in 1934 and 1939 respectively, they have been rated as being among Colette’s finest work.

Duo

In Duo, Colette observes, with astuteness and perception, two characters whose marriage is foundering on the wife’s infidelity. Acting out the crisis, Alice and Michel have the stage to themselves so that nothing is allowed to distract from the marital dialogue.

Le Toutounier

Le Toutounier continues Alice’s story after Michel’s death and her move to Paris. There she and her two sisters live in a shabby, homely apartment; fiercely independent, reticent, hard-working, needing men but showing little sign of loving them, they speak a private language and seek comfort in the indestructible sofa (toutounier) of their childhood.

Translated from the French and with an introduction by Margaret Crosland

‘A major literary talent.’ – Irish Times

‘Drenched with her talent at its best.’ – Sunday Times

‘Sensuous vital prose.’ – Scotsman

‘A delight … dazzling sustained dialogue.’ – Sunday Telegraph

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SIDONIE GABRIELLE COLETTE (1873–1954) was born in Burgundy, France. She married when she was twenty and collaborated with her husband on the Claudine novels published under his name. She became the foremost French woman author of her time and established herself as an outstanding talent. Her novels and prose-works are notable for their sensitive understanding and portrayal of nature and country life. She died in 1954.