A Century Later, Echoes of the Great War Resurface in a Transatlantic Literary Connection
Two authors, separated by geography but united by a shared fascination with World War I, have discovered a remarkable connection through the story of a Belgian soldier named Léonce Delaunoy. Bérénice Pichat, a writer based in Le Havre, France, and Violaine Lison, from Belgium, found their paths intertwined by a century-traditional tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.
From Battlefield to Bookshelves: The Story of Léonce Delaunoy
Léonce Delaunoy (1893-1918) was a young Belgian soldier who served as a stretcher-bearer during the war. Before being mobilized, he was a seminary student. He documented his experiences in a series of notebooks, which he entrusted to a friend, Herman, shortly before his death in October 1918. These notebooks, passed down through generations, eventually found their way to Violaine Lison in 2014.
Lison’s book, “Lequel de nous portera l’autre?” (Which of us will carry the other?), meticulously pieces together Léonce’s story, exploring his life, his wartime experiences, and his deep connection with Herman. The book is described as a “pocket handkerchief” – a deeply personal and emotionally resonant work.
An Unexpected Convergence: A House, a Book, and a Shared History
The connection between Pichat and Lison began at a book signing in Liège, Belgium, in November 2025. Pichat, author of “La Petite Bonne,” which won the Prix des Libraires in 2025, was gifted Lison’s book by a bookseller. Upon learning that Pichat lived in Le Havre, Lison realized something extraordinary: Pichat’s home was the particularly house where Léonce had found refuge during his leave from the front lines.
“It’s a little crazy,” Lison remarked, “For twelve years, I’ve been looking at this house on Google Maps… I wondered who lived there.”
A Poignant Reunion: Objects from the Past Return Home
On February 18, 2026, Lison traveled to Le Havre, bringing with her a collection of Léonce’s personal belongings – photographs, a prayer book, a knife, and other mementos. The reunion of these objects with the house where Léonce once lived was a deeply emotional experience for both authors.
Lison discovered that Léonce had a close relationship with Herman, described as “his companion, of arms and of the heart” – more than a brother. This detail adds another layer of complexity to Léonce’s story, hinting at a hidden life and a love that endured amidst the horrors of war.
The Enduring Legacy of the Great War in Contemporary Literature
The story of Pichat and Lison highlights a renewed interest in the personal narratives of World War I. Both authors, also professors, are contributing to a growing body of work that seeks to humanize the conflict and explore its lasting impact on individuals and communities.
Lison’s research has revealed potential inconsistencies and censored passages within Léonce’s journals, suggesting a more complex and nuanced story than initially understood. This underscores the importance of critical analysis and careful interpretation when examining historical documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the significance of the title “Lequel de nous portera l’autre?”? The title, meaning “Which of us will carry the other?”, refers to the emotional weight of loss and the enduring bond between Léonce and Herman.
- Where can I find Bérénice Pichat’s book? “La Petite Bonne” is published by Les Avrils.
- What was Léonce Delaunoy’s role in the war? He served as a stretcher-bearer on the Belgian front.
Pro Tip: Exploring local historical societies and archives can often uncover fascinating personal stories connected to major historical events.
If you’re captivated by stories of resilience and remembrance, consider exploring other works of historical fiction and biography that shed light on the human experience during times of conflict. Share your favorite historical reads in the comments below!
