Books

The Pretty Girl

of the Street

Magloire Amboise

In “The Pretty Girl of Street,” Vilio Bacette explores the contrasting fates of two groups of men in Haitian society. The narrative unfolds around five impoverished rural men facing dire circumstances such as malnutrition and homelessness. Driven by desperation, they migrate to Port-au-Prince, seeking a better life. In stark contrast are three middle-class intellectuals working in public administration, positioned for success and stability. However, their mismanagement of opportunities leads them astray into scandalous behaviors, causing disgrace and personal ruin.As the story unfolds, the rural men, against all odds, find success and marry as they had hoped. They become respected figures, embodying professionalism and commitment to their communities. In contrast, the urban men face the consequences of their actions, including exile and troubled marriages.Through these contrasting narratives, Bacette reflects on themes of ambition, integrity, and the consequences of one’s choices in Haitian society. “The Pretty Girl of Street” serves as a poignant exploration of social dynamics and personal destiny in a changing nation striving for a better future.