Book Review: En salle by Claire Baglin
When I first picked up En salle, the English translation of Claire Baglin’s On The Clock, I was drawn in by its promise to dive deep into the often overlooked world of service industry work. Having spent my own share of time behind counters and in kitchens, I was eager to see how Baglin would capture the nuances of this demanding yet critical aspect of our economy. What I didn’t expect was a memoir that not only chronicled her summer at a fast-food restaurant but also weaved in the rich histories of her parents—a poignant tapestry detailing the trials and triumphs that define labor across generations.
At its core, En salle challenges the often romanticized view of work. Baglin paints a vivid picture of the realities faced by those in the service industry, earning a meager wage while juggling the demands of unruly customers and relentless tasks. Through her days of taking drive-thru orders and cleaning fryers, we get an unflinching look at the physical and emotional toll such jobs exact on workers. One passage that resonated with me profoundly was when she reflects on achieving a perfect performance review score, only to find it did little to alter her life circumstances. It’s a sobering reminder that, in many cases, hard work doesn’t always translate into meaningful change.
Baglin’s narrative structure is noteworthy; she elegantly weaves in her father’s experiences in French factories and her mother’s dedication as a social worker. This multi-generational perspective enriches the narrative, shedding light on themes of economic disparity and the sometimes burdensome nature of work. It’s a powerful juxtaposition against her affluent classmates, bringing to the fore the universal struggle many face in making ends meet. This reflective exploration of social class and its manifestations struck a chord with me, reminiscent of Ben Cheever’s insights in Selling Ben Cheever, which I cherish for similar reasons.
What truly elevates En salle is Baglin’s ability to ground authentically relatable moments with humor and her distinct French cultural nuances. Her playful observations lighten the weighty topics of work-life balance and economic challenges, providing an engaging contrast that kept me turning pages. The pacing flows effortlessly, making profound reflections accessible without feeling heavy-handed.
For anyone familiar with the grind of hourly work or wondering how such life choices ripple into broader socio-economic issues, this book is a must-read. The insights she delivers shine a light on the relentless cycle many endure, where success is often dictated by factors beyond one’s control. As I closed the last pages of En salle, I felt a rejuvenated sense of solidarity with those who brave the service industry every day, and a renewed appreciation for the grit that goes unseen but is so essential to our daily lives.
In conclusion, Claire Baglin’s En salle offers a compelling exploration of work that is both personal and universal. Whether you have spent your days working frontlines like the author or have lived a different professional journey, her reflections are bound to resonate. This book is not just for those in the service industry; it’s for anyone who has ever grappled with the balance between dreams, work, and survival in a world that often feels stacked against them. I walked away feeling inspired and somewhat more aware of the lived experiences that lie behind every fast-food order and factory assembly line. If that sparks your curiosity, grab a copy, and dive into Baglin’s world—it’s a ride worth taking.