“I chose this title, Surnamebecause it is the basis of my investigations. For me, each family name contains a fictional dimension and constitutes a “work of literature”, as Georges Perec said. Our names carry stories for which we are not responsible and yet we are the heirs.
While my first work, Consenthad just been released, I learned of the death of my father, a man with many gray areas, to whom I had not spoken for years. I learned on this occasion that my last name was not Springora, but Springer. This discovery was the starting point of the investigation into the vagueness surrounding my origins. When I had to empty my father’s apartment, which was also my grandparents’ apartment, I was confronted with their secrets. It was by opening a box that I discovered with amazement the reasons why my grandfather had changed his identity: he had to escape an embarrassing past since he had adhered to Nazi ideals in his youth and had worn their insignia.
Through the story of a family, a few photos, a few administrative documents, I question my identity. This book allows me to live more peacefully and to reconcile with the male part of my family. It reminds me that I made the choice to bear this name knowing the dark side it covers and being aware that whatever happens, there is no “proper” name. »
