The writer, retired literature professor and former literary critic at Duty François Hébert died at the age of 77 on Tuesday from severe pancreatitis.
We must celebrate his work because it is “multiple, it is coherent, it is beautiful”, says with emotion Nathalie Watteyne, his companion since 2005.
Mr. Hébert, who was born in Montreal, taught literature at the University of Montreal from 1972 to 2006. He also edited the journal Freedom, in addition to publishing about twenty books including collections of poems, essays and novels. His most recent book titled Frank will speak was published by the Leméac publishing house last March.
“François Hébert really has one of the finest mastery of French in Quebec”, supports at the end of the line Mme Watteyne. The latter adds that he was also an ardent defender of the French language.
The artist also made collages, she points out, adding that an exhibition of her creations is planned for next fall at Atelier Galerie 2112 in Montreal. “He picks up things in the street, but it’s very very beautiful. He makes something out of it, he makes a beautiful material out of it,” she explains.
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