Tintin ET Moi by Numa Sadoul
The concept of doing a lengthy interview with the Tintin creator came from Numa Sadoul. In these conversations, Hergé’s amiable demeanour, simplicity, dedication to the truth, outlook on life, and humour are revealed. We also notice his reserve and desire to not let us down. We learn about his perspective on his work, its origins, the responses of his audience, the criticism, and the success. Tintin and I continue to be a crucial phase for the development of the work and Hergé’s personality as a primary source and key reference.
Tintin ET Moi by Numa Sadoul
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If you’re a die-hard Tintin fan, you must read this book. This in-depth interview with Herge, which spans the length of a book, analyzes each volume in the collection and touches on nearly every facet of the Tintin oeuvre. Herge spends a lot of time discussing both his personal and political conflicts. Recall that Tintin and Me, a 2004 movie loosely based on this novel, was released. It contains an interview with Sadoul and information that Herge asked to be omitted from the book, relating to Herge’s divorce from his first wife after an affair with his secretary, who would later become his second wife.
Hergé was interviewed by Numa Sadoul when he was a child for a thesis. The cartoonist appeared flattered and grew close enough to talk further. These are replicated in this paperback, if not edited or condensed. The more intriguing portions, however, have already been eagerly and succinctly taken up and used in other novels (see e.g. my Tim book list).
Extracted passages from letters and writings written by Studio Hergé staff members are optional supplements.
Unfortunately, Hergé frequently has to defend himself in the Entretiens against Sadoul’s somewhat absurd interpretations. Sadoul certainly could have benefitted from learning a little more tactful interviewing techniques. It’s pleasant to “hear” Tim’s father in a somewhat authentic manner. This is supported by the French original. But only those who are extremely interested in Hergé should properly read the book. Despite being quite excited about Tim and having read the entire book,
This was released in 1975. A young student from the south of France named Numa Sadoul also requested an interview with Hergé. The interview continued indefinitely as he accompanied himself and his tape recorder. He studied for 14 hours. Hergé, who had always been reluctant to discuss his life, finally did so for the first time. As a result, for anyone interested in Hergé, this is a basic background document since it contains information about him.
Hergé lived a fairly difficult life that he never discussed. Like many entertainers, he had a tremendous sense of humour but also a very strong depressed side. He struggled with Tintin, and Hergé suffered as a result of his popularity. Hergé faced great demands to perform at that level for the rest of his life from the moment Tintin first appeared. His work in the 1950s suffered as a result of this and other factors, which sent him through significant depressive episodes.
