LovelyMay

    Stories 93
    Chapters 1,516
    Words 6.7 M
    Comments 0
    Reading 23 days, 5 hours23 d, 5 h
    • Scene 5. I. Cover
      by LovelyMay Scene 5. I. of Cyrano de Bergerac begins in the peaceful park of the Sisters of the Holy Cross in Paris, set in 1655, where the autumn beauty is captured in vivid detail. The scene is painted with the presence of grand trees, an expansive house with wide steps, and a large plane tree standing sentinel-like, surrounded by boxwood bushes. The park’s natural beauty extends further, with chestnut trees lining an alleyway that leads to a distant chapel, partially obscured by branches. The soft view of the…
    • Scene 5. II. Cover
      by LovelyMay Scene 5. II. introduces a poignant moment in Cyrano de Bergerac, where the harshness of life and the shadows of past decisions become painfully evident. In the tranquil setting of a convent garden, Sister Martha, Sister Claire, and Mother Marguerite offer a brief but telling glimpse into Cyrano's deteriorating state. Despite being hungry and weak, Cyrano's unyielding pride prevents him from accepting help, symbolizing both his noble spirit and the silent suffering that haunts him. As Roxane arrives,…
    • Scene 5. V. Cover
      by LovelyMay Scene 5. V. in Cyrano de Bergerac marks a deeply emotional and reflective moment for the characters, where Roxane waits outside a convent, expecting Cyrano’s arrival. The backdrop of autumn provides a poignant metaphor for themes of change, loss, and the passage of time. As Roxane waits, she reflects on the calm beauty of the season, contrasting it with the liveliness of spring, symbolizing her own journey through grief and acceptance. This scene underscores the emotional weight of her waiting,…
    • Scene 5. VI. Cover
      by LovelyMay Scene 5. VI. marks the poignant climax of Cyrano de Bergerac as Roxane finally uncovers the truth about Cyrano's deep, unspoken love for her. This revelation comes to light amidst the painful backdrop of Cyrano’s fatal injury, and despite his previous denials, Roxane recognizes the truth. She realizes that the voice that serenaded her and the eloquent words of love were not Christian's, but Cyrano’s all along. The emotional moment is interrupted by the arrival of Le Bret and Ragueneau, who are shocked…
    • To the Reader Cover
      by LovelyMay To the Reader, in Chapter 2 of "Worldly Ways and Byways," the author reflects on a past diplomatic custom known as the Pele Mele, a practice meant to resolve the constant disputes over precedence among courtiers and diplomats. This system, likely conceived by an overburdened Master of Ceremonies, sought to nullify rank and eliminate the usual formalities of social gatherings, creating an environment where one's position at an event was determined by wit or chance rather than status. The Pele Mele resulted…
      Culture • Romance Novel • Society
    • Chapter 1 — Charm Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 1 – Charm delves into the concept of charm, which the author views as the pinnacle of sophistication and allure, particularly in women. This captivating quality is described as being far more influential than mere beauty, capable of swaying the fates of entire empires and captivating hearts across generations. Remarkably, many women who have possessed this charm were not considered conventionally beautiful by society’s standards. Historical figures such as Cleopatra and Mary of Scotland,…
      Culture • view
    • Chapter 2 — The Moth and the Star Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 2 – The Moth and the Star delves into an intriguing paradox within American culture—the fascination that ordinary people have with the lives of the wealthy, despite having no direct connections or shared experiences with them. This deep interest in the lifestyle of the rich and fashionable is explored in contrast to the norms of European societies, where the admiration for aristocracy is often rooted in centuries of tradition and hereditary privilege. In contrast, America’s lack of a…
    • Chapter 3 — Contrasted Travelling Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 3 – Contrasted Travelling contrasts the meaningful and immersive travel experiences of the past with the superficial nature of modern travel. Fifty years ago, a trip abroad was a rare, significant event that required careful planning and preparation. Travelers would seek advice from experts, read extensively, and even make wills before embarking on their journey. Upon reaching their destinations, they would write long letters home, sharing the details of their adventures with friends and family,…
    • Chapter 4 — The Outer and the Inner Woman Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 4 – The Outer and the Inner Woman examines the growing trend of shoplifting among well-educated and seemingly refined women, attributing it to a cultural fixation on outward appearances rather than inner substance. The author suggests that this behavior is a result of rapid and immature prosperity, where the desire for luxury and social display overtakes the pursuit of genuine quality or comfort. In societies where wealth is often equated with value, fashion becomes a central focus, with women…
      Culture • Society • view
    • Chapter 5 — On Some Gilded Misalliances Cover
      by LovelyMay Chapter 5 – On Some Gilded Misalliances explores the often disappointing results of marriages between American women and foreign aristocrats. Through the experiences of an insightful American lady in Rome, the author reflects on the rarity of truly successful unions in these circumstances, challenging the romantic ideal of marrying into nobility. Once viewing these international unions as fairy-tale endings, the author’s perspective evolves over time, shaped by years of observation and the harsh…
      Culture • Relationship • Society
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