The Devil in the Flesh

A poignant tale of forbidden love during World War I, The Devil in the Flesh captures the complexities of youth and passion.

Set against the backdrop of the First World War's final year, The Devil in the Flesh explores a forbidden love affair between a sixteen-year-old boy and a married woman. This young woman, whose husband is fighting at the front, finds solace in secret meetings with her youthful lover. Their encounters take place in her modest flat on the outskirts of Paris, as well as in the tranquil cornfields and along the serene riverbanks. Together, they burn letters from her husband, symbolizing their desire to escape the reality of her marriage. Their passionate connection intensifies, leading them to ignore the societal scandal brewing around them.

Raymond Radiguet, the author, penned this semi-autobiographical novel while still a teenager. His writing, characterized by spare yet haunting prose, captures the tumultuous emotions of adolescence. The Devil in the Flesh quickly gained recognition as a bestseller, with Radiguet being celebrated as a literary genius before his untimely death at just twenty years old. The novel is a poignant exploration of the joys and sorrows of young love, revealing the complexities of human relationships during a time of war.

Translated by Robert Baldick and featuring an introduction by Fay Weldon, this work remains a stunning example of literary artistry. With its striking imagery and subtle beauty, The Devil in the Flesh invites readers to reflect on the nature of love, desire, and the inevitable consequences of passion.