The Baudelaire Fractal

In this novel, a young woman discovers she has written Baudelaire's works, leading her to reflect on beauty and identity.

In The Baudelaire Fractal, acclaimed poet Lisa Robertson makes her fiction debut with the captivating story of Hazel Brown. Hazel, the eldest daughter of a fading social class, embarks on a journey of self-discovery that begins when she unexpectedly wakes up to find she has penned the complete works of Charles Baudelaire. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Paris, the narrative intertwines her youthful escapades with reflections on art, literature, and the essence of beauty.

As Hazel navigates her way through a life marked by uncertainty and aspiration, she recalls her early days filled with dreams of grace and creativity. The hotel room she finds herself in becomes a symbol of her past experiences, echoing the cheap accommodations she occupied during her quest for artistic fulfillment. Through her reminiscences, readers are invited to explore the intricate connections between her life and Baudelaire's, revealing the profound impact of literature on personal identity.

The Baudelaire Fractal is not only a tale of a young woman's pursuit of beauty but also an homage to the power of reading and the artistic legacy of the 19th century. Lisa Robertson's lyrical prose captures the essence of Hazel's journey, celebrating the complexity of a girl's mind and her relentless search for meaning in a world filled with distractions.