Robert Choquette

Robert Choquette was a man of letters who effortlessly bridged the literary and political worlds of French Canada. He first made his name as a poet in Montreal, winning the prestigious Prix David while still in his twenties for his collection ‘À travers les vents.’ His true popular breakthrough, however, came through the airwaves. He pioneered original radio drama in Quebec, creating and writing the immensely popular serial ‘Le Curé de village,’ which captivated audiences for years and demonstrated the narrative power of the new medium. This success in popular storytelling translated to television, where he also worked as a writer and host. In a striking second act, Choquette entered the diplomatic service, representing Canada in Argentina, Norway, and Switzerland. This shift from crafting verses to drafting diplomatic cables was less abrupt than it seemed; both roles required a precise feel for language and cultural nuance. He continued to write throughout his life, leaving a body of work that captured the evolving spirit of mid-century Quebec.