Toujours Provence Summary & Key Insights

"Toujours Provence," Peter Mayle's sequel to the wildly popular "A Year in Provence," continues the charming chronicle of his life in the French countryside. While not possessing a singular, driving plot like a novel, the book is a collection of interconnected vignettes, showcasing Mayle's ongoing adventures and observations of rural Provençal life during a second year of settling into his new home. The narrative unfolds less as a structured story and more as a series of delightful essays connected by the central theme of embracing the Provençal way of life.

The main "character," if one can call it that, is Mayle himself. He remains the amiable observer, chronicling his experiences with humor and a deep appreciation for the beauty and quirks of his surroundings. His wife, Annie, continues to play a significant role, although she’s less directly featured than in the first book; her presence is subtly woven into the fabric of their shared life in Provence. The supporting cast is a vibrant mix of colorful characters: local artisans, shopkeepers, neighbours, and friends, each adding a unique flavour to the narrative. The recurring theme of the difficulties of dealing with French bureaucracy, especially concerning renovations and local regulations, persists, providing ample comedic fodder.

Major plot points, if one can label them as such, are loosely connected events rather than a linear progression. We see Mayle grapple with various home improvement projects, each fraught with humorous delays and unexpected obstacles. These projects, from building a swimming pool to tackling persistent plumbing issues, become a microcosm of the challenges and rewards of adapting to a different culture and lifestyle. He recounts his encounters with local tradesmen, highlighting the often-comical differences in working styles and communication. The book also explores seasonal changes, from the intense heat of summer to the tranquility of autumn, showcasing the rhythm of Provençal life. The annual cycle of planting, harvesting, and preparing food is interwoven into the narrative, emphasizing the strong connection between the people and the land.

The overarching themes of "Toujours Provence" centre on the joys and frustrations of adapting to a new culture, the appreciation of slower living, and the celebration of simple pleasures. Mayle's writing constantly emphasizes the sensory details of Provence: the sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of the region are vividly depicted. He explores the profound differences between the British and French approaches to life, often humorously highlighting the cultural clashes and misunderstandings. The book ultimately celebrates the rewards of embracing a different pace of life, finding contentment in the beauty of the surroundings and the richness of human connection. Through his witty observations and charming storytelling, Mayle effectively conveys the allure of Provence and its lasting impact on his life.