The Story

The story follows Henri, a young, aimless writer. He meets the Vernet family—a gentle husband, his wife, and their niece—and is invited to spend the summer with them at their seaside home. What starts as a polite visit slowly turns into a permanent residency. Henri becomes the human equivalent of a piece of furniture you can't get rid of. He eats their food, enjoys their hospitality, and offers little in return except his vaguely artistic presence. The plot is a series of subtle scenes where the family's patience wears thinner and thinner, while Henri remains blissfully (or willfully) unaware of the burden he's become.

Why You Should Read It

Renard's genius is in the observation. He doesn't need to shout; he shows you everything through tiny details—a strained smile, a sigh heard from the next room. Henri isn't a villain, he's just profoundly self-involved, and that makes him fascinating. Reading this book feels like being let in on a secret. It’s a masterclass in social satire that’s as relevant today as it was in the 1890s. We’ve all known a Henri, or maybe worried we’ve been one ourselves.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love character studies and quiet, psychological tension over fast-paced action. If you enjoy authors who dissect human behavior with a precise and slightly merciless eye—think a French, nineteenth-century version of subtle cringe comedy—you’ll adore this. It’s a short, brilliant snapshot of social awkwardness that sticks with you.