Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

A Passion in the Desert   By: (1799-1850)

Book cover

A Passion in the Desert by Honoré de Balzac is a fascinating and thought-provoking novella that explores the transformative power of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the blurred boundaries between civilization and nature.

The story takes place during the Napoleonic era, amidst the chaos and brutality of war. The protagonist, a French officer named Jean-Pierre, finds himself stranded in the Egyptian desert after his unit is decimated. Left with no provisions and seemingly no hope of rescue, Jean-Pierre descends into despair, his very survival hanging by a thread.

However, the narrative takes an unexpected turn when Jean-Pierre stumbles upon a young panther, seemingly doomed like he is. Yet, rather than succumbing to fear, the officer develops an uncanny bond with the wild animal, marked by mutual dependence and friendship. This bond forms the core of the narrative, highlighting the inherent longing for connection that exists deep within the human soul.

Balzac’s prose is nothing short of extraordinary. His vivid descriptions of the harsh desert landscape and the mysterious beauty of the panther create a rich and immersive reading experience. The author effortlessly captures the raw emotions and conflicting desires that swirl within Jean-Pierre as he grapples with his instincts, surging affection, and the society-imposed boundaries that separate him from his newfound companion.

Moreover, A Passion in the Desert offers a profound exploration of the human urge to conquer and tame nature. Balzac delves into the dichotomy between civilization and the untamed wilderness, challenging our preconceived notions about what it truly means to be civilized. As Jean-Pierre and the panther navigate their desolate surroundings, the novella raises questions about the illusions of control and the fragility of the human ego when faced with the vastness of nature’s power.

While the story is relatively short, A Passion in the Desert remains a touching and intellectually provocative tale that lingers in the reader's mind long after the last page is turned. Balzac's exploration of love, survival, and the inherent contradictions within the human psyche makes this novella a literary gem that deserves the attention of any discerning reader.

In conclusion, A Passion in the Desert is a powerful and beautifully crafted work of fiction that defies categorization. Balzac’s ability to enthrall and challenge readers with his evocative storytelling is truly remarkable. Through the unlikely bond between man and beast, the novella offers a timeless reflection on the nature of humanity and the inherent desire for connection. It is a mesmerizing read that leaves a lasting impression and prompts contemplation on the intricacies of the human experience.

First Page:

A PASSION IN THE DESERT

By Honore De Balzac

Translated by Ernest Dowson

A PASSION IN THE DESERT

"The whole show is dreadful," she cried coming out of the menagerie of M. Martin. She had just been looking at that daring speculator "working with his hyena," to speak in the style of the programme.

"By what means," she continued, "can he have tamed these animals to such a point as to be certain of their affection for "

"What seems to you a problem," said I, interrupting, "is really quite natural."

"Oh!" she cried, letting an incredulous smile wander over her lips.

"You think that beasts are wholly without passions?" I asked her. "Quite the reverse; we can communicate to them all the vices arising in our own state of civilization."

She looked at me with an air of astonishment.

"But," I continued, "the first time I saw M. Martin, I admit, like you, I did give vent to an exclamation of surprise. I found myself next to an old soldier with the right leg amputated, who had come in with me. His face had struck me. He had one of those heroic heads, stamped with the seal of warfare, and on which the battles of Napoleon are written. Besides, he had that frank, good humored expression which always impresses me favorably. He was without doubt one of those troopers who are surprised at nothing, who find matter for laughter in the contortions of a dying comrade, who bury or plunder him quite light heartedly, who stand intrepidly in the way of bullets; in fact, one of those men who waste no time in deliberation, and would not hesitate to make friends with the devil himself... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books