I'm Off And One Year

The book intertwines two narratives about Félix Ferrer and Victoire, exploring their journeys of self-discovery and the consequences of their choices in life.

In I'm Off And One Year, the story revolves around Félix Ferrer, a man at a pivotal stage in his life. Rather than treating himself and his heart with care, he indulges in a bachelor lifestyle within his Paris atelier, which also serves as his art gallery. As he grapples with the consequences of his impulsive decisions, he finds himself embarking on an unpredictable journey, leaving behind his suburban home and his wife. Ferrer is characterized by his appetite for life, yet he ignores the warnings of his doctor, choosing instead to chase after rare Inuit artifacts in the extreme conditions of the North Pole.

Meanwhile, Victoire's narrative unfolds in One Year, where she faces a shocking wake-up call when she discovers her boyfriend dead beside her. In a panic, she escapes with only the essentials, heading towards the Southwest. As time passes, she loses her possessions, financial stability, and sense of self. A year later, Victoire returns to Paris, hoping for a fresh start, but is unprepared for the shocking reality that awaits her.

Together, these two interconnected tales by Jean Echenoz explore themes of loss, identity, and the consequences of living life on the edge. Echenoz, a celebrated author known for resonating with both the young and the older literary crowd, weaves a narrative that captures the complexities of human relationships and the unpredictability of life.