LF281 Café Littéraire Book Group: Fear and Trembling, by Amélie Nothomb

 "Fear and Trembling" (Stupeur et Tremblements), by Amélie Nothomb, is about Amélie, a young Belgian woman who spent her early years in Japan before moving to her native Belgium. She returns to Japan as a translator for the prestigious Yumimoto company, where her struggles with cultural misunderstandings lead to a series of comedic and tense mishaps. Under Fubuki Mori, her initially friendly supervisor, Amélie’s attempts to contribute, like delivering mail or assisting a manager with a report, are seen as violations of hierarchy. These actions escalate tensions, with Fubuki perceiving Amélie as disrespectful, while Amélie feels stifled by rigid company traditions. Their relationship deteriorates when Amélie tries to console Fubuki after a public humiliation, an act misinterpreted as hostility.

Despite being demoted to cleaning bathrooms, Amélie endures her contract to avoid losing face, reflecting a Japanese emphasis on perseverance. After returning to Belgium, she publishes her first novel, receiving a brief acknowledgment from Fubuki years later. The story explores cultural clashes, hierarchy, and the weight of differing concepts of responsibility and respect.

"Fear and Trembling" was was awarded the Grand Prix du Roman de l'Académie Française in 2001, and it was adapted into the film Fear and Trembling in 2003.

Registration opens on 25 January 2025.