Adieu

"Adieu" by Honoré de Balzac is a moving story set in France after Napoleon’s reign, exploring themes of love, loss, and what it means to be human. The story follows Colonel Philippe de Sucy, who finds the Comtesse de Vandieres, Stephanie, living with madness after suffering through a difficult time in history. Philippe desperately tries to bring Stephanie back to her old self by trying to spark her memories and emotions, showing both love and a harsh approach. The story uses strong images and well-developed characters to show the lasting effects of trauma, how easily someone can lose their sanity, and how love can stay with us even after someone is gone.