Patrick, your Canada Day article reminded me of another historical example that reinforces your point. Even O Canada began in French. It was composed in 1880 by Calixa Lavallée, with French lyrics by Adolphe-Basile Routhier, for a Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day celebration in Quebec City. The English version followed more than a quarter-century later.
I found it such a meaningful piece of our shared history that I worked it into a scene in my novel, The True North Talks. It reminds readers that one of Canada's defining national symbols was born in Quebec, before it became the anthem that Canadians know today.
That idea runs through the novel: Quebec is not outside Canada's story. It is central to it. I'd be pleased to send you a copy if it would be of interest.
Excellent article... I'm a French guy raised in small rural francophone area who married a wonderful anglophone lady raised in rural English (mostly Irish) community. We frequently have discussions about this very topic, and try our best to edicate people about the strenght and weaknesses of our country. We know all too well that Canada is better and stronger with ALL it's pieces together.
Patrick, your Canada Day article reminded me of another historical example that reinforces your point. Even O Canada began in French. It was composed in 1880 by Calixa Lavallée, with French lyrics by Adolphe-Basile Routhier, for a Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day celebration in Quebec City. The English version followed more than a quarter-century later.
I found it such a meaningful piece of our shared history that I worked it into a scene in my novel, The True North Talks. It reminds readers that one of Canada's defining national symbols was born in Quebec, before it became the anthem that Canadians know today.
That idea runs through the novel: Quebec is not outside Canada's story. It is central to it. I'd be pleased to send you a copy if it would be of interest.
Hi John,
You’re absolutely right, and you remind that I initially wanted to add that example to close my article, and forgot, so thanks for the reminder.
I would be delighted to read your book.
Excellent article... I'm a French guy raised in small rural francophone area who married a wonderful anglophone lady raised in rural English (mostly Irish) community. We frequently have discussions about this very topic, and try our best to edicate people about the strenght and weaknesses of our country. We know all too well that Canada is better and stronger with ALL it's pieces together.