Publication and Reception of Virgile, non (1985): The Long Way Up

2025 marks 40 years since the publication of Monique Wittig’s last novel, Virgile, non (1985), a novel that Wittig preferred despite, or possibly due to it being less popular. Drawing upon archival research conducted at the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, this article endeavors to underscore the value of archival materials, such as manuscripts and author notes, in enriching our comprehension of Virgile, non; start building an editorial history of the novel in France and the USA; and reemphasize the challenging conditions under which Virgile, non was written and published, thereby advocating for its renewed recognition.