Claire Martin, (18 April 1914 – 18 June 2014) was the pseudonym of the Canadian writer Claire Montreuil. She wrote mainly in French. Her novels often have themes of women's liberation and erotic relationships. Martin frequently revealed her devotions toward the "Frenchness" and Quebec nationalism as saying "I prefer to be of Quebec." or "I feel closer to love as a French-Canadian."

Early life and education

Martin (Claire Montreuil) was born in Quebec City, Quebec. She was educated at the Ursuline convent and by the Dames de la Congrégation. According to her interview with Winnipeg Free Press, it is said that her father gave negative influence on her childhood being against education for girls and expressing the hatred toward women.

Career

In 1945 Martin lived in Ottawa and became a writer in residence at the University of Ottawa. Her first novel, Avec ou sans amour, was published in 1958. Her next two novels, the psychological thriller Doux-amer in 1960 and Quand j'aurai payé ton visage in 1962 were praised for elegant use of language. The latter was translated into English and published as The Legacy.

In 1965 she published her two-volume autobiography, Dan un gant de fer.

In 1970 she published her final novel, Les Morts.

In 1972 Martin left the university, and lived in France until 1982, when she returned to Quebec.

In 2014 she celebrated her 100th birthday on 18 April and died on 18 June.

Honours

A Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, Martin was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1984 in recognition for being "one of the most important writers of her generation in Canada". She was promoted to Companion in 2001. She was made an Officer of the National Order of Quebec in 2007.

  • Claire Martin at The Canadian Encyclopedia
  • Archives of Claire Martin (Fonds Claire Martin, R11778) are held at Library and Archives Canada