Sapho   By: Alphonse Daudet (1840-1897)

Sapho is a captivating novel that tells the story of a young man named Jean and his tumultuous love affair with a beautiful and seductive woman named Fanny. Set in Paris in the late 19th century, the novel explores themes of love, desire, and betrayal.

Daudet's writing is elegant and evocative, bringing to life the streets of Paris and the passionate emotions of his characters. Jean's infatuation with Fanny is both all-consuming and destructive, leading him to make questionable decisions and ultimately facing the consequences of his actions.

The character of Fanny is complex and multi-dimensional, portrayed as both a femme fatale and a vulnerable woman searching for love and validation. Their relationship is intense and at times toxic, but it is undeniably gripping to read about.

Overall, Sapho is a beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the power of love and desire. It is a classic tale of passion and heartbreak that will resonate with readers long after they have finished the book.

First Page:

Au pressant interrogatoire de l’Égyptienne, le pifferaro répondait avec l’ingénuité de son âge tendre, l’abandon, le soulagement d’un Méridional resté longtemps sans parler. Étranger à tout ce monde de peintres, de sculpteurs, perdu dès en entrant dans le bal par l’ami qui l’avait amené, il se morfondait depuis deux heures, promenant sa jolie figure de blond hâlé et doré par le soleil, les cheveux en frisons serrés et courts comme la peau de mouton de son costume; et un succès, dont il ne se doutait guère, se levait et chuchotait autour de lui... Continue reading book >>