TEHRAN- French writer Hervé Le Tellier’s novel “The Anomaly” has recently been published in Persian by Now Publications. 

Fatemeh Ebrahimian and Mohammad-Amin Beik are the translators of the book, which was originally published in 2020.

"The Anomaly" is structured around three parts, each named after a poem by Raymond Queneau: "As Black as the Sky," "Life Is a Dream, They Say," and "Song of Oblivion." This Oulipian work delves into the realm of reality and fiction, posing thought-provoking questions.

Set in June 2021, the story unravels after a bizarre incident disrupts the lives of the passengers aboard a flight from Paris to New York. Among the hundreds of individuals affected, we encounter an array of captivating characters.

Blake, for instance, may appear to be an ordinary family man, but he secretly works as a contract killer. Slimboy, a Nigerian pop star, has grown weary of his façade. Joanna, a formidable lawyer, finds herself confronted with the consequences of her flaws. Lastly, there's Victor Miesel, a writer highly regarded by critics but commercially unsuccessful, who suddenly witnesses his work become a cult hit.

As the narrative unfolds, it becomes apparent that all these individuals believed they led double lives. However, none of them had ever fathomed just how true that notion truly was. 

Le Tellier weaves a witty exploration of the doppelgänger theme, transporting readers across continents, from Lagos and Mumbai to the corridors of power in the White House.

"The Anomaly" is Le Tellier's most ambitious work to date, garnering praise from literary critics. In recognition of its merits, the novel was awarded the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 2020. With its clever storytelling and the profound questions, it raises about perception and truth, this novel captivates readers, inviting them to ponder the boundaries between reality and fiction.

SAB/