Vent de galerne is a novel written by Jean Anglade, published in 1978. The story is set in Auvergne, a region in France, during the 1950s. The protagonist, Julien, is a young man who returns to his hometown after studying in Paris. He is faced with the harsh reality of rural life and the challenges of adapting to the traditional ways of the countryside.
The title, Vent de galerne, refers to a strong wind that blows in the region, symbolizing the changes and conflicts that Julien experiences as he tries to find his place in the community. Through his interactions with the locals and his own personal journey, Julien learns about love, loss, and the importance of family and heritage.
The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the clash between modernity and tradition. It paints a vivid picture of rural life in France and the struggles of a young man trying to reconcile his past with his future.