The Ecology of Being in The Prospector by J.-M. G. le Clezio

Abstract

This article provides a detailed analysis of the novel "The Prospector" by the contemporary Franco-Mauritian writer J.M.G. Le Clezio through the lens of ecocriticism. The objective is to perform an ecocritical reading that explores the representation of humanity's place within nature, their interconnection and interdependence, and the threats of anthropocentric and colonial mindsets as highlighted by the author. Furthermore, the study examines Le Clezio’s vision of a transition toward a new ecocentric paradigm, an ecological awakening, and a more harmonious form of coexistence with the environment. The article relies on ecocriticism as a literary theory examining the portrayal of the natural world in fiction, while also incorporating elements of postcolonial criticism and ontological philosophy; the methodological framework is based on hermeneutic analysis. The introduction provides an overview of existing scholarship on the ecocritical analysis of Le Clezio's oeuvre, including research in the fields of ecolinguistics and biosemiotics. The article justifies some artistic features of the novel, such as extensive use of indigenous flora and fauna names as a means of engaging the reader through concrete sensory perception rather than an abstract concept of nature. It analyzes the idea of nature’s agency, which is evident at the narrative level but is also grounded in contemporary ecophilosophy, e.g. the theory of "vibrant materiality." The role of secondary characters in awakening the protagonist's ecological consciousness is also highlighted. The protagonist is presented in two distinct guises — as a gold seeker and as a participant in World War I — allowing the author to address the discourse of war as ecocide. This dual role enables the narrative to scale the problem of the anthropocentric worldview beyond individual consciousness, transposing it onto a level of global, collective experience. Finally, the article draws parallels with the ideas of German philosopher Martin Heidegger regarding the unity of man with his surroundings, as well as his concept of "dwelling" as a harmonious form of human existence in the world. Further analysis of Le Clezio’s novels through the lens of the philosophy of being is considered to be a promising direction for future research.