Au cœur de l'Auvergne

The narrator returns to the rugged heart of Auvergne through a cascade of memories that feel as fresh as yesterday, even though they stretch back decades. Born in a modest suburb of Paris, he traces his family’s lineage to the high plateaus of Brezons and Cézens, painting the landscape with images of volcanic peaks, distant pastures, and the echo of childhood games. These recollections set the tone for a vivid portrait of a region that shaped his identity long before he ever set foot on its soil.

Interwoven with the geography is the rich tapestry of Auvergnat life: the stubborn persistence of the patois, the ever‑present cabrette that leads each village dance, and the close‑knit networks of merchants, charcoal‑burners, and craftsmen who kept their language alive. The narrative celebrates everyday rituals—shared meals, communal festivals, and the music that rose from worn‑leather bags—offering listeners a sensory journey into a world where tradition and community are inseparable.