Huguette Bertrand's Entre la chair et l'âme is a collection of poems that explores the quiet borderland where our physical existence meets our inner life. There's no single plot, but a journey through sensations, memories, and reflections. The poems move from the tangible—the feel of fabric, the ache in bones, the taste of food—to the intangible realms of emotion, spirit, and past selves. It’s a meditation on being human in a body that feels, ages, and remembers.

The Story

Think of this book less as a story with a beginning and end, and more as a series of moments captured under a microscope. One poem might focus on the simple act of breathing, making you aware of your own lungs. Another might recall a childhood scent with such clarity it feels real. Bertrand walks us through ordinary rooms and landscapes, but she points out the extraordinary conversations happening within them: the argument between tired muscles and a determined will, the negotiation between a heart that wants to feel everything and a mind that seeks peace. The central 'narrative' is this lifelong, gentle conflict and companionship between what we are made of (the flesh) and who we feel we are (the soul).

Why You Should Read It

I picked this up on a day when everything felt too loud, and it was like a glass of cool water. Bertrand’s poetry has a calming, precise clarity. She names those fleeting feelings we often ignore. Her work isn’t flowery or difficult; it’s grounded and honest. Reading it made me more attentive to my own experiences—the sun on my neck, the weight of a decision, the quiet history held in a scar. It’s a book that validates the importance of paying attention to your own life. The poems are short, often just a few lines, but they land with a quiet impact that lingers.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect book for anyone who enjoys contemplative, accessible poetry that connects with everyday life. If you’ve felt intimidated by dense, abstract verse, Bertrand’s work is a wonderful entry point. It’s also ideal for readers in a reflective season of life, or for anyone who needs a mindful pause. You won’t find epic tales or complex puzzles here, but you will find a sincere and moving exploration of what it means to inhabit a self. Keep it on your nightstand for those moments when you need a thoughtful, grounding companion.