Poverty and Crime in Chanson douce by Leïla Slimani

Abstract

This study focuses on the book "Chanson douce" by Leïla Slimani, analyzing the main character, the nanny Louise. The analysis highlights the social, psychological, and literary aspects of the work, based on four key elements.

Initially, we examined the parents' personal aspirations, particularly those of the mother, Myriam, who prioritizes her career over her maternal duties. This alternative results in a complete transfer of parenting to a third party.

The second chapter addresses the parents' lack of vigilance, highlighting their neglect and disinterest in the face of worrying indications in Louise's behavior. This exclusion led to a tragic outcome.

The third axis examines poverty as a trigger for violence. Louise, who comes from a disadvantaged background, is portrayed as a woman facing psychological instability, marginalized, and leading a life marked by social insecurity. This underlying pain manifests itself in an act of intense violence. Finally, through an in-depth study of the nanny, we discover a contradictory character, poised between tenderness and danger. Louise becomes a reflection of a society that excludes the most vulnerable. Her final act, tinged with tragedy, represents a reaction to a world that has abandoned her.

Thus, this research seeks to demonstrate that the crime in "La Petite Chanson" is not an isolated act of society, but rather the result of the interweaving of parental and social responsibilities.