"Tranche de vies" is a French expression that translates to "slices of life" in English. It is a literary term used to describe a genre of literature or a narrative approach that focuses on presenting short, discrete, and realistic episodes or snapshots of ordinary people's lives.
In this context, "tranche de vies" refers to the portrayal of everyday situations, mundane experiences, and the quotidian struggles, joys, and interactions of individuals. It captures the essence and authenticity of human existence by depicting various aspects of life such as work, family, relationships, love, friendship, and personal growth.
The term originated from the French "tranche," meaning a slice or a piece, and "vies," meaning lives. The concept was popularized by French authors such as Marcel Proust, Gustave Flaubert, and Guy de Maupassant, who employed this narrative technique to create evocative, realistic portrayals of characters and their lived experiences.
In modern usage, "tranche de vies" has transcended literature and is now used more broadly to describe any artistic or literary work, whether in literature, film, photography, or even theater, that aims to capture and depict the complexities and nuances of human existence through intimate and relatable glimpses into the lives of ordinary people. It seeks to reveal the universal truths and emotions that can be found within the everyday occurrences and dramas of human life.
