Regret by Guy de Maupassant (1881)
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after years abroad and becomes infatuated with a woman he had previously known. His obsession with her leads him to commit a series of increasingly disturbing acts, ultimately culminating in a tragic confrontation. The narrative explores themes of love, possession, and the darker aspects of human nature.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1881 · Genre: Realism, Psychological Fiction, Tragedy · 2,590 words
First lines
Monsieur Saval, who was called in Mantes "Father Saval," had just risen from bed. He was weeping. It was a dull autumn day; the leaves were falling. They fell slowly in the rain, like a heavier and slower rain. M. Saval was not in good spirits. He walked from the fireplace to the window, and from the window to the fireplace. Life has its sombre days. It would no longer have any but sombre days for him, for he had reached the age of sixty-two. He is alone, an old bachelor, with nobody about him. How sad it is to die alone, all alone, without any one who is devoted to you!
What this Textopian page supports
Regret is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1881 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Guy de Maupassant
- Date: 1881 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Realism, Psychological Fiction, Tragedy, Literary Fiction
- Length: 2,590 words
- Structure: 1 section, 68 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Regret by Guy de Maupassant
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Realism — The narrative focuses on the detailed depiction of everyday life and the inner thoughts of an ordinary character, reflecting the principles of realism.
- Psychological Fiction — The story delves deeply into the protagonist's introspection and emotional turmoil, exploring themes of regret and missed opportunities.
- Tragedy — The plot centers around the protagonist's realization of a wasted life and unfulfilled love, leading to a sense of personal tragedy.
- Literary Fiction — The work emphasizes character development and thematic depth over plot, focusing on existential questions and human emotions.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Realism · Short Story · French Literature · 19th Century · Literary Classic · Tragic Ending · Melancholy Tone · Existential Crisis · Human Nature · Regret Theme · Loss and Grief