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In the postcolonial context, the question of the choice of language of expression represents a primordial issue. In Algeria, where several languages come into play, this issue caused acute tensions. Despite predictions of the disappearance of literature written in the language of the former colonizer, French has continued to be chosen, flourishing in the process. This article examines the motivations of Algerian writers opting for French as well as the consequences of this choice. We will mainly focus on the emancipatory role of French. As the religion of Islam prevents the “I” from pronouncing itself and from imposing itself, the Maghrebian author, seized by a discomfort linked to the sanctity of Arabic, therefore in certain cases resorts to the once dominant language which nevertheless allows him to constitute oneself as an individual.