Best Selling Books by Marcel Proust

Published as the first volume of the popular French ''In Search of Lost Time'' series in 1871, ''Swann''s Way'' and other volumes following it were written by Marcel Proust. The series is considered to be his most prominent work, known both for its length and its theme of involuntary memory, the most famous example being the "episode of the madeleine" which occurs early in the present volume.

In Swann’s Way, the themes of Proust’s masterpiece are introduced, and the narrator’s childhood in Paris and Combray is recalled, most memorably in the evocation of the famous maternal good-night kiss. The recollection of the narrator’s love for Swann’s daughter Gilberte leads to an account of Swann’s passion for Odette and the rise of the nouveaux riches Verdurins. For this authoritative English-language edition, D. J. Enright has revised the late Terence Kilmartin’s acclaimed reworking of C. K. Scott Moncrieff’s translation to take into account the new definitive French editions of Á la recherché du temps perdu (the final volume of these new editions was published by the Bibliothèque de la Pléiade in 1989).

In the third volume of the celebrated novel, a writer comes into his own and learns the way of the world in Paris. Continuing the nameless narrator’s voyage through his memories after Within a Budding Grove, The Guermantes Way finds him and his family entering Parisian high society. They have moved into a stately old town house owned by the Duke and Duchess de Guermantes in the Fauborg Saint-Germain district of Paris. Daily sightings of the duchess do nothing but fan the flames of the narrator’s infatuation with her. So, of course, he falls in love once more. He also continues his journey as a writer, visiting aristocratic and literary salons where, beneath a thin veneer of manners, a battle for political, sexual, and social supremacy rages on . . . Originally published in two volumes in 1920 and 1921, The Guermantes Way explores the customs of Parisian society in Belle Époque France. Praise for Marcel Proust “Whatever your preference, Proust is a pleasure no serious reader should miss.” —Kirkus Reviews “Reading Proust . . . it’s a whole world not just a book. Everyone wants to live more than one life and Proust is like ‘here’s another one you can live.’” —Francine Prose, New York Times–bestselling author of Mister Monkey “I can think of only one other writer capable of such breadth and humanity: Shakespeare.” —André Aciman, New York Times–bestselling author of Find Me “When I want to restore my faith in literature, I read Proust. . . . Reading Proust is like watching a galaxy being put together, one particle at a time.” —Aleksandar Hemon, author of The Making of Zombie Wars

- This version of Swanns Way: In Search of Lost Time includes a biography of the author Marcel Proust at the end of the book - This includes life before and after the release of the book In Swann''s Way, the great arc of In Search of Lost Time begins with the narrator''s efforts to recapture and understand his past, efforts set in motion by the taste of a madeleine soaked in tea. ... Here Proust''s portrayal of the complexity of consciousness centers on the mind trying to understand itself. This is Volume 1 In the series

Originally composed as the preface to Proust''s 1906 translation of John Ruskin''s Sesame and Lilies, Journées de lecture ("Days of Reading") was later republished in the collection Pastiches et Mélanges (1919) and subsequently as a standalone text. While ostensibly an introduction to Ruskin''s work on reading and life, the essay serves as a significant early articulation of Proust''s own evolving aesthetic philosophy. It engages critically with Ruskin''s moralistic view of reading as a form of virtuous instruction, proposing instead a more introspective and subjective conception. Proust argues that the true value of reading lies not in the passive absorption of an author''s doctrine, but in its unique capacity to act as a catalyst for the reader''s own deepest thoughts and memories, a form of "spiritual exercise" that stimulates the inner life. The essay develops key Proustian themes concerning the nature of time, memory, and the relationship between solitude, the self, and the external world. Proust elevates reading as an activity uniquely suited to fostering a state of profound mental receptivity and solitude, contrasting it sharply with the superficial distractions of social life. He famously describes the ideal reading environment – particularly the quiet atmosphere of childhood holidays – as a space where the mind, freed from immediate concerns, can achieve a heightened state of awareness and reflection. While not yet employing the fully developed concept of involuntary memory, Journées de lecture lays crucial groundwork for Proust''s later ideas about the creative process, emphasizing the transformative power of introspection and the subjective resonance triggered by external stimuli, positioning reading as a privileged gateway to the deeper self. This critical reader’s edition presents a modern translation of the original manuscript, crafted for the contemporary reader with lucid language and streamlined sentences that illuminate Proust’s intricate French syntax and period‑specific allusions. Supplementary material enriches the text with autobiographical, historical, and linguistic context, including an afterword by the translator on Proust’s personal history, cultural impact, and intellectual legacy, an index of the philosophical concepts he weaves—highlighting his explorations of memory, time, and the influence of Henri Bergson—a comprehensive chronological list of his published writings, and a detailed timeline of his life, emphasizing the friendships and social circles that shaped his artistic vision.

The narrator returns to Paris after World War I, and reflects on his past life as the raw material for literature.

In "The Prisoner," the fifth volume of Marcel Proust''s monumental work, "In Search of Lost Time," the author deftly explores themes of love, jealousy, and the complexities of human relationships. Written in Proust''s signature style, the narrative is rich in introspective observations and intricate psychological insights, allowing the reader to traverse the labyrinth of the protagonist''s mind. Proust''s exploration of time and memory reaches new depths as he delves into the effects of obsession and possessiveness, particularly in the relationship between Marcel and Albertine, revealing the intricate interplay between desire and despair in the pursuit of love. Marcel Proust, a French novelist and essayist, was deeply influenced by his own experiences with love and friendship, as well as his struggles with societal expectations. Born into a wealthy Parisian family, he often found himself at odds with the rigid structures of his class, which informed much of his writing. Proust''s experiences of longing and existential contemplation led him to create a narrative world that reflects the emotional depth and nuance of human connections, illustrating the blend of temporal fluidity and desire. "The Prisoner" is a remarkable journey through the human psyche, beautifully capturing the inflections of passion and the pain of attachment. A must-read for anyone interested in the subtleties of relationships and the philosophies of memory, this book encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences, making it an essential addition to the canon of modern literature.

Swann''s Way: Large Printby Marcel ProustMarcel Proust, known as Marcel Proust, was a French novelist, critic, and essayist best known for his monumental novel À la recherche du temps perdu (In Search of Lost Time; earlier rendered as Remembrance of Things Past), published in seven parts between 1913 and 1927. He is considered by critics and writers to be one of the most influential authors of the 20th century.

"The Classic Collection of Marcel Proust" is an exquisite literary compilation that brings together the seminal works of the celebrated French author, Marcel Proust. This anthology features Proust''s most iconic and enduring works, including "Swann''s Way," "In Search of Lost Time," and "Within a Budding Grove," each beautifully complemented with illustrations that enhance the reading experience. Marcel Proust is renowned for his intricate and introspective exploration of human consciousness, memory, and the nuances of social life. In "Swann''s Way," readers are introduced to the complex narrative and the famous madeleine moment, where a simple pastry triggers a cascade of memories. "In Search of Lost Time," also known as "À la recherche du temps perdu," is Proust''s magnum opus, a multi-volume masterpiece that delves deep into the intricacies of time, memory, and personal identity. It invites readers to embark on an introspective journey through the narrated experiences of the author''s alter ego, Marcel. "Within a Budding Grove" continues the odyssey, where Marcel''s infatuation with Albertine unfolds against a backdrop of social gatherings and artistic expression. This illustrated collection enhances the reading experience by visually capturing the atmosphere and the essence of Proust''s narrative, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the intricate beauty of his prose. "The Classic Collection of Marcel Proust" is a literary treasure for those who appreciate the depths of human experience and the art of introspection. Marcel Proust''s exploration of memory and time has left an indelible mark on the world of literature and continues to captivate readers with its intricate storytelling and profound insights. Immerse yourself in the contemplative world of Proust and experience the beauty of his prose through this elegantly illustrated collection. IN SEARCH OF LOST TIME: SWANN’S WAY WITHIN A BUDDING GROVE THE GUERMANTES WAY CITIES OF THE PLAIN THE CAPTIVE THE SWEET CHEAT GONE TIME REGAINED

The Captive , the fifth volume of Marcel Proust''s monumental work In Search of Lost Time, is a profound exploration of love, obsession, and the psychological intricacies of desire. The novel follows the narrator''s relationship with Albertine, whom he keeps confined in his Paris apartment in a desperate attempt to possess and control her. Through this dynamic, Proust delves into the themes of jealousy, memory, and the illusions that shape emotional attachment. Published posthumously, The Captive is marked by its introspective depth and lyrical prose, continuing Proust''s investigation into the workings of consciousness and the passage of time. The novel reflects the narrator''s inner turmoil, as he oscillates between affection and suspicion, revealing how love can become entangled with fear and domination. The enduring significance of The Captive lies in its unflinching portrayal of the fragility of human relationships and the limitations of understanding another person''s inner world. As part of Proust''s larger masterpiece, it offers an intimate and haunting meditation on the nature of possession, loss, and the relentless search for meaning in love.

The definitive translation of one of the greatest French novels of the twentieth century In the opening volume of Proust''s great novel, the narrator travels backwards in time in order to tell the story of a love affair that had taken place before his own birth. Swann''s jealous love for Odette provides a prophetic model of the narrator''s own relationships. All Proust''s great themes - time and memory, love and loss, art and the artistic vocation - are here in kernel form. ''Surely the greatest novelist of the 20th century'' Telegraph

Within a Budding Grove (1919) is the second volume of Marcel Proust’s seven-part novel In Search of Lost Time. Written while Proust was virtually confined to his bedroom from a lifelong respiratory illness, Within a Budding Grove is a story of memory, history, family, and romance from a master of Modernist literature. Praised by Virginia Woolf, Vladimir Nabokov, Michael Chabon, and Graham Greene, In Search of Lost Time explores the nature of memory and time while illuminating the history of homosexuality in nineteenth century Europe. After years of admiring the Swann family from a distance, the narrator befriends the lovely young Gilberte. Through her, he gains access to her parents and their home, where artists and intellectuals gather to discuss their lofty ideals alongside the latest gossip. Despite his attraction to Gilberte, he finds himself enthralled with her mother, a careworn beauty so often ignored by her husband. As he grows and learns, he begins to recognize the reality concealed by convention: the secret liaisons between lovers; the petty competitions of artists; the fleeting nature of affection and lust alike. Written in flowing prose, Within a Budding Grove is a masterpiece of twentieth century fiction that continues to entertain and astound over a century after it appeared in print. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Marcel Proust’s Within a Budding Grove is a classic work of French literature reimagined for modern readers.

Sodom and Gomorrah by Marcel Proust is a profound meditation on desire, identity, and the hidden complexities of human relationships. As the fourth volume in In Search of Lost Time, it delves deeply into themes of homosexuality, social hypocrisy, and the masks individuals wear to conform to societal norms. Through the narrator''s observations—particularly regarding Baron de Charlus and his secret life—Proust exposes the fragility of appearances and the emotional turbulence beneath the surface of elite society. Since its publication, Sodom and Gomorrah has been noted for its psychological acuity and its bold treatment of subjects rarely addressed openly in its time. Proust''s intricate prose, long introspective passages, and exploration of memory and perception continue to challenge and reward readers. The novel advances the series'' central questions about time, love, and self-knowledge, using subtle shifts in relationships and inner thoughts to chart the evolving consciousness of its narrator. The enduring relevance of Cities of the Plain lies in its unflinching portrayal of human vulnerability and the tension between public identity and private truth. As part of Proust''s monumental work, it remains a landmark in modern literature, offering deep insight into the nature of desire and the forces—emotional, cultural, and temporal—that shape human lives.

Marcel, a young bourgeois in Paris, wants to be a writer. However, worldly temptations divert him from his vocation. Attracted by the false brilliance of the aristocracy or the fashionable summer spots, he grows as he discovers the world, love, and the existence of homosexuality. Will you achieve your goal of fixing lost time? On the Path of Swann is the first volume of Marcel Proust''s In Search of Lost Time, a leading text of French letters and also of universal literature.

The “Guermantes Way,” in this the third volume of In Search of Lost Time, refers to the path that leads to the Duc and Duchess de Guermantes’s château near Combray. It also represents the narrator’s passage into the rarefied “social kaleidoscope” of the Guermantes’s Paris salon, an important intellectual playground for Parisian society, where he becomes a party to the wit and manners of the Guermantes’s drawing room. Here he encounters nobles, officers, socialites, and assorted consorts, including Robert de Saint Loup and his prostitute mistress Rachel, the Baron de Charlus, and the Prince de Borodino. For this authoritative English-language edition, D. J. Enright has revised the late Terence Kilmartin’s acclaimed reworking of C. K. Scott Moncrieff’s translation to take into account the new definitive French editions of Á la recherché du temps perdu (the final volume of these new editions was published by the Bibliothèque de la Pléiade in 1989).

Set against the backdrop of Paris at the end of the nineteenth century, presents a portrait of a stormy love affair between the courtesan Odette de Crécy and upper-class socialite Charles Swann that gives way to profound meditations on love and jealousy.

swann''s way in search of lost time marcel proust In Search of Lost Time or Remembrance of Things Past (French: À la recherche du temps perdu) is a novel in seven volumes by Marcel Proust. His most prominent work is popularly known for its considerable length and the notion of involuntary memory, the most famous example being the "episode of the madeleine." The novel is widely referred to in English as Remembrance of Things Past but the title In Search of Lost Time, a literal rendering of the French, has gained in usage since D. J. Enright adopted it in his 1992 revision of the earlier translation by C. K. Scott Moncrieff and Terence Kilmartin. The complete story contains nearly 1.5 million words and is one of the longest novels in world literature.

Title: Swann''s Way Remembrance of Things Past, Volume OneAuthor: Marcel ProustLanguage: English

The first volume of the 7-part masterpiece In Search of Lost Time, Swann''s Way introduces the reader to Charles Swann, a wealthy connoisseur in 19th-century Paris and a victim of an agonizing romance.

"Widely recognized as the major novel of the twentieth century" -Harold Bloom ; Literary Critic Swann''s Way is the first volume of seven of the series In Search of Lost Time written by Marcel Proust (1871-1922). It is considered to be his most prominent work, known both for its length and its theme of involuntary memory, the most famous example being the "episode of the madeleine" which occurs early in Swann''s Way. In Search of Lost Time follows the narrator''s recollections of childhood and experiences into adulthood during late 19th century to early 20th century aristocratic France, while reflecting on the loss of time and lack of meaning to the world. The novel had great influence on twentieth-century literature; some writers have sought to emulate it, others to parody it. In the centenary year of the novel''s first volume, Edmund White pronounced À la recherche du temps perdu "the most respected novel of the twentieth century". A True Classic that Belongs on Every Bookshelf!

Marcel Proust, was a French novelist, critic, and essayist best known for his monumental novel À la recherche du temps perdu (In Search of Lost Time; earlier rendered as Remembrance of Things Past), published in seven parts between 1913 and 1927. He is considered by critics and writers to be one of the most influential authors of the 20th century.