Swann's Way by Marcel Proust (1913)

Swann's Way is the first volume of Marcel Proust's seven-part novel, In Search of Lost Time. It is a semi-autobiographical work, narrated by the protagonist, Marcel, as he reflects on his childhood memories and experiences. The novel begins with Marcel's memories of his childhood in Combray, a small town in France. He remembers his family, his friends, and his love for the local church and its gardens. He also remembers his fascination with Swann, a wealthy and sophisticated man who lives nearby. Marcel's memories of Swann lead him to reflect on the nature of love and the power of jealousy. He remembers Swann's love for the courtesan Odette, and how it eventually leads to his downfall. The novel also explores the themes of memory, time, and the power of art. Marcel reflects on how his memories of the past shape his present, and how art can capture and preserve moments of beauty and emotion. Swann's Way is a complex and multi-layered work that is considered to be one of the greatest novels of the 20th century. It is a timeless exploration of the human experience, and a powerful meditation on the nature of love, memory, and art.

By Marcel Proust · First published 1913 · Genre: Modernist Literature, Realism, Romance · 4 chapters

Contents

• Chapter 1
• Chapter 2
• Chapter 3
• Chapter 4

More by Marcel Proust

• Within a Budding Grove (1913)
• The Guermantes Way (1913)
• Cities of The Plain (1913)
• The Captive (1913)
• The Sweet Cheat Gone (1913)
• Time Regained (1913)
• All works by Marcel Proust