However, van Breemen’s recollections suggest that the man audiences admired on screen could be considerably more complicated in his private life. She describes a relationship marked by emotional contradictions, in which moments of tenderness and deep attachment could coexist with misunderstandings, tension and painful disagreements. Looking back, she appears to question how much of their shared experience was influenced by Delon’s alleged psychiatric difficulties and how little they understood about them at the time.
The memoir also raises broader questions about the impact of undiagnosed mental health conditions on romantic relationships and family life. Van Breemen’s discussion of anosognosia is particularly significant because the condition can prevent individuals from recognising that they are experiencing a medical or psychological problem. This can create considerable difficulties for partners and relatives who may find themselves struggling to explain behaviours that seem confusing or distressing. Another important dimension of the book is the passage of time.
