Release date is 2021-03-15

Laura Natal Rodrigues at Free Literature (Images generously made available by Gallica, Bibliothèque nationale de France.)

"Lui: Roman contemporain" by Louise Colet is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative explores themes of love, art, and societal norms through the experiences of its protagonist, who engages in deep discussions with the Marquise Stéphanie de Rostan, reflecting on the nature of love and the complications that arise within it. The characters navigate a world rich in intellectual pursuits, friendships, and the emotional intricacies of their relationships. The opening of the novel introduces a conversation between the narrator and the Marquise de Rostan, who critiques modern portrayals of love and expresses a desire to return to a more genuine connection with one's feelings. The Marquise shares her reflections on love, describing its profound joys and sorrows, while revealing a sense of nostalgia for past passions. As she reminisces about a famous poet, Albert de Lincel, her narrative sets the stage for exploring their connection, emphasizing the tension between artistic pursuits and personal desires. Colet's prose blends philosophical inquiry with vivid character descriptions, setting a reflective tone that invites readers into the emotional and intellectual worlds of its characters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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