La peau de chagrin
Book • 1900
Honoré de Balzac's La Peau de chagrin (The Wild Ass's Skin) is a philosophical novel that explores themes of desire, mortality, and the human condition.
The narrative follows Raphaël de Valentin, a young man who discovers a magical skin that grants him wishes but at the cost of his lifespan.
Balzac's masterful use of language and imagery creates a powerful and haunting reading experience.
La Peau de chagrin delves into the darker aspects of human nature, while also exploring the complexities of human desire.
Its enduring appeal lies in its exploration of universal themes and its exploration of the human condition.
The narrative follows Raphaël de Valentin, a young man who discovers a magical skin that grants him wishes but at the cost of his lifespan.
Balzac's masterful use of language and imagery creates a powerful and haunting reading experience.
La Peau de chagrin delves into the darker aspects of human nature, while also exploring the complexities of human desire.
Its enduring appeal lies in its exploration of universal themes and its exploration of the human condition.
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Mentioned by Brian Counter as a favorite novelist of Cormac McCarthy, whose work he sees parallels with.

Cormac McCarthy's 'Suttree' - Death, Freedom, and Meaning with Bryan Counter