The Guermantes Way

Set against the backdrop of a transforming Europe on the brink of World War I, the narrative delves into the life of a young man navigating the complexities of upper-class society. As he grapples with personal losses, including the decline of his family and friends, his fascination with the enigmatic Madame de Guermantes deepens. This character study reveals the tension between the allure of aristocracy and the inevitable changes of time, memory, and mortality, showcasing Proust's exploration of human experience amidst societal decay.