Sainte-Marie-Des-Fleurs: Roman

''Sainte-Marie-des-Fleurs: Roman'' by René Boylesve is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores themes of love and self-discovery through the eyes of the main character, who becomes infatuated with a young girl he encounters repeatedly in Venice. The novel captures the interplay of longing and the emotional complexities of romantic relationships. The opening of the novel introduces a protagonist who first meets the captivating ''Sainte-Marie-des-Fleurs'' on the beach in Venice. He is drawn to her despite his reservations about her appearance, particularly after witnessing her dismissing annoying tour guides with impatience. As he watches her from afar, the narrative shifts to his reflections on beauty, connection, and the fleeting nature of encounters. The protagonist's obsession with the girl deepens as he fantasizes about their potential relationship, even attending a church where he believes fate may connect them once again. The blend of poetic imagery and inner turmoil establishes a rich atmosphere of romantic tension that promises further exploration of their relationship.