Reply To: Still Life: Why do you think the village of Three Pines is not on any map?
I like to think that Three Pines isn’t on any map because it’s like a fairy tale place – hidden in the woods, a little bit “out of time.” Off-the-map places may still exist in the world, but being “uncharted” makes them feel mysterious, romantic, and magical. At the very least, it makes them special. It doesn’t seem to be a disadvantage to those who live there. In fact, they all seem to appreciate its hidden nature.
I especially liked the history Ben shares with Gamache about the three pines being planted as a code for United Empire Loyalists seeking sanctuary—a refuge from the world’s cruelty. Interestingly, Louise describes Three Pines as a historically British/English town surrounded by French Quebec, which may explain why it was forgotten and left off maps.
Throughout the Gamache series, Three Pines continues to be a sanctuary, a beacon for those in need of belonging. In Still Life, the villagers demonstrate in both small and big ways how much they care for one another and their community. Jane Neal stands up to the teenage vandals to defend Gabri and Olivier’s home. Ruth helps clean up the mess and she runs the volunteer fire department. Timmer appears to have looked after Clara and Peter in lots of different ways. Gabri and Olivier don’t seek revenge on Philippe for the vandalism; instead, they insist he work at the bistro, not as punishment but as a way to help him see kindness and possibility. Clara, too, is determined to help find Jane’s killer and works with Gamache.
Each of them plays a role in shaping Three Pines into more than just a hidden village. It’s a true community.
