Strong as Death   By: Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893)

Strong as Death by Guy de Maupassant is a gripping and emotive tale that explores the power of love and its ability to conquer even the greatest obstacles. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, this novel delves deep into the complexities of human relationships, desires, and the inevitable tragedy that often accompanies them.

The story follows the lives of two individuals, Paul and Louise, who become entangled in a passionate and all-consuming love affair. From the moment their paths cross, the chemistry between them is palpable, and their connection grows with every encounter. However, their love is far from conventional, as both are bound by existing commitments. Paul is already married, while Louise is engaged to his friend and colleague, Jean.

Maupassant navigates these complex dynamics with finesse, delving into the depths of the characters' emotions as they grapple with their desires and societal expectations. The author explores the theme of forbidden love with a raw intensity, creating a tension that reverberates throughout the entire narrative. The reader becomes enthralled in the characters' struggles, torn between empathy for their predicament and the desire for them to overcome their obstacles.

What sets Strong as Death apart is Maupassant's ability to capture the essence of passion and desire. His prose is sensual and evocative, painting vivid scenes that transport the reader into the heart of the story. The author's keen observation of human nature and his ability to convey complex emotions with eloquence are truly remarkable.

Moreover, Maupassant presents a nuanced exploration of the consequences that arise from pursuing such a forbidden love. As the intricate web of lies, secrets, and deception continues to unravel, the characters are confronted with the harsh reality of their decisions. Themes of regret and the inescapable consequences of one's actions are woven seamlessly into the narrative, prompting introspection and contemplation long after the final page is turned.

While the plot primarily revolves around Paul and Louise's love affair, Maupassant weaves in a rich tapestry of subplots and supporting characters. Each character brings a unique perspective to the story, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative. From the jealous Jean to the enigmatic Doctor Bouchard, the secondary characters contribute significantly to the thematic exploration of love, morality, and the human condition.

Strong as Death is a timeless classic that resonates with readers of all ages. Maupassant's captivating storytelling, combined with his intricate examination of human desire and its consequences, make this novel a masterpiece of romantic literature. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, romance, or simply appreciate a well-crafted tale, this book is sure to captivate and leave you pondering the intricacies of love long after you've reached the final page.

First Page:

Broad daylight streamed down into the vast studio through a skylight in the ceiling, which showed a large square of dazzling blue, a bright vista of limitless heights of azure, across which passed flocks of birds in rapid flight. But the glad light of heaven hardly entered this severe room, with high ceilings and draped walls, before it began to grow soft and dim, to slumber among the hangings and die in the portieres, hardly penetrating to the dark corners where the gilded frames of portraits gleamed like flame. Peace and sleep seemed imprisoned there, the peace characteristic of an artist's dwelling, where the human soul has toiled. Within these walls, where thought abides, struggles, and becomes exhausted in its violent efforts, everything appears weary and overcome as soon as the energy of action is abated; all seems dead after the great crises of life, and the furniture, the hangings, and the portraits of great personages still unfinished on the canvases, all seem to rest as if the whole place had suffered the master's fatigue and had toiled with him, taking part in the daily renewal of his struggle. A vague, heavy odor of paint, turpentine, and tobacco was in the air, clinging to the rugs and chairs; and no sound broke the deep silence save the sharp short cries of the swallows that flitted above the open skylight, and the dull, ceaseless roar of Paris, hardly heard above the roofs... Continue reading book >>