The Girl With The Golden Eyes

By Honore De Balzac

Originally published in 1835, this novella by the renowned French author explores the tumultuous love affair between a young Parisian, Henri de Marsay, and a mysterious woman known only as “the girl with the golden eyes.” Despite her enigmatic nature and the disapproval of his friends, Henri is drawn to her passionately. The novel delves into themes of love, desire, power, and the corrupting influence of wealth and social status through its vivid characters and complex plot. Balzac’s insightful commentary on French society during this period makes “The Girl With The Golden Eyes” a significant work in 19th-century literature.

“She belongs to that feminine variety which the Romans call fulva, flava—the woman of fire. And in chief, what struck me the most, what I am still taken with, are her two yellow eyes, like a tiger’s, a golden yellow that gleams, living gold, gold which thinks, gold which loves, and is determined to take refuge in your pocket.”

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Despite these potential imperfections, it remains an important piece of literature, offering readers a glimpse into Balzac’s masterful storytelling and his profound exploration of human emotions and societal dynamics.