Cecile, a stylish 47-year old, has spent the weekend visiting her parents in Troyes, a small town about an hour and a half from Paris. Exhausted by her visit, she takes the 6:41 express train back to Paris on Monday morning. The seat next to her is empty, but before long is occupied by a man from her past. The man is Philippe Leduc, with whom she had a brief, though passionate relationship 30 years ago that left her humiliated.
The narrative is a journey through their respective thoughts and reflections. Each one recognizes the other, but doesn't want to break the silence. They reflect on their past and present lives.
This reminded me of another French novel structured in much the same way. Michel Butor's La Modification, written in 1957. La Modification follows L.D. on a train trip from Paris to Rome. While riding the train, L.D. makes many mental stops and transfers as he reflects on his past romantic relationships.
While reading, I wondered what I would say to a friend or former boyfriend whom I hadn't seen for 30 years if I happened to sit next to him/her on a train or plane. In the 6:41 to Paris, the past is lying is lurking, waiting to ambush Cecile and Philippe.
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