Why was the story immersive?

Stendhal’s mastery. The story flows. The author has a tremendous capacity to trigger a wide range of emotions effortlessly. Reading the text triggers a unique feeling; the feeling you get only when you read books written by great authors.

What did I learn from this book?

This book didn’t necessarily teach me something, but rather made me question the things I already know. This book made me question my approach to life. It made me wonder if I am taking enough risks. It made me asses the things I value. All of this through making me question the protagonist’s decisions; would I (or could I) have acted similarly? It made me feel… .

Expressions that struck a chord

• “She’ll think I’m lacking in love for her, whereas it’s love that is lacking in me.”
• “The noble language of its architecture left him unmoved.”
• “It is within my power to tell you several things before the night has been altogether replaced by the day.”
• “But that passport bears in so many letters a name destined for a prison.”

New words

I wrote down some of the words that I didn’t know. I append them below.

1. lofty = of imposing height.
2. sangfroid = composure or coolness shown in danger or under trying circumstances.
3. unassailable = unable to be attacked, questioned, or defeated.
4. infatuated = possessed with an intense but short-lived passion or admiration for someone.
5. dishevelled = (of a person’s hair, clothes, or appearance) untidy; disordered.
6. bewitch = enchant and delight (someone).
7. upbraid = find fault with (someone); scold.
8. reprimand = a formal expression of disapproval.
9. deference = polite submission and respect.