Felix-Antoine Savard, 1896-1982

We Canadians are justifiably proud of our rich literary tradition, built as it is by great writers whose work is enjoyed throughout the world. This year, which happens to be both the bicentennial of the birth of Thomas Haliburton and the centennial of the birth of Félix-Antoine Savard, Canada Post launches a set of domestic-rate stamps to honour five of our most celebrated authors. Each of the five writers is well-known and well-loved for telling stories which have inspired us, moved us and changed us. They represent a rich contrast in Canadian voices, and yet they share an honest insight into day-to-day life that has become a central focus in Canadian literature. They also share striking originality, and the talent and courage to tell different stories different ways. Born in Quebec City a century ago, Félix-Antoine Savard was ordained a Roman Catholic priest in 1922. One of Quebec's first nationalists, he dedicated most of his life to slowing the erosion of Quebec culture. Among his many works "Menaud, maître-draveur" stands out best and brightest. The novel, set in the lumber regions of North-eastern Quebec, concerns Menaud, master log driver, and his frustrated attempts to block Anglo-Canadian exploitation of Quebec's resources. The novel was applauded by critics for its nationalist spirit and for its skilled marriage of classic story-telling with French Canadian regional expression. Savard received the Governor General's Award in 1959 for "Le Barachois", his tribute to the Acadians. In choosing a designer for this important tribute to Canadian writers, Canada Post was delighted to turn once again to Alain Leduc of Montreal, whose previous work includes the "Canada Day Group of Seven" set, (1995) and "La Francophonie" (1995). As readers can see from the images on these pages, each stamp bears a subtle computer enhanced portrait of the author based on an actual photograph. Engraved over each portrait is the opening sentence of a major work, while underneath each is a translation in smaller type. This series of five writers is a welcome addition to the Canadian tradition of honouring its best. Moreover, the international stature of the authors featured in the series is sure to attract the interest of collectors at home and around the world.