Huguette Bertrand's Jusqu'à l'extrême regard (which translates to 'To the Extreme Gaze') isn't a book with a traditional plot. Instead, it's a journey of perception. Through a series of poems, Bertrand acts as a guide, leading us away from the blur of everyday distraction. She focuses our attention on small, often overlooked details—a crack in the pavement, the way light falls at a certain hour, the weight of a memory. The collection builds a quiet tension between this deep, patient observation and the frantic pace of the world that encourages us to ignore it.

Why You Should Read It

This book surprised me. I picked it up expecting abstract art, but found it incredibly grounding. Bertrand's language is sharp and clear, not flowery. She cuts through the noise and points directly at things, making the ordinary feel sacred. Reading it felt like a reset for my attention span. In a time when we're constantly scrolling and multitasking, these poems are a powerful reminder to stop and actually look. It’s about reclaiming your own gaze from the chaos.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone feeling a bit disconnected or overwhelmed by the speed of life. It’s also a great pick for readers who are curious about poetry but are intimidated by dense, archaic language. Bertrand’s work is contemporary, accessible, and deeply thoughtful. You don’t read this book to escape reality, but to plunge more deeply into it. Keep it on your nightstand for when you need a five-minute moment of clarity.