Volupte (1869)

Navigating the complexities of love and desire, two friends, Octave and Serge, become entangled in romantic triangles involving the enchanting Brigitte and the seductive Denise. As Octave grapples with his ambitious nature and Serge immerses himself in his artistic passions, both men confront the tension between their desires and rationality. Through elegant prose, Charles Augustin Sainte-Beuve delves into profound themes of love, passion, and loss, offering a captivating exploration of human nature.