Overview: Karl, a young immigrant, lives with his uncle in New York who jealously watches over the education of his nephew. A friend, Mr. Pallunder invites Karl to spend a night at his house. Despite strong opposition from his uncle, Karl agrees. On the way, Karl realises he may have displeased his guardian. His desire to turn back will be prevented.
Overview: In 19th-century Paris, Charles Swann risks his social standing in his obsessive pursuit of prostitute Odette. His overwhelming desire for her comes, in part, from Odette's complete disinterest in him. When he finally weds her, utterly compromising himself in high society, he finds to his horror that his love for her was a complete illusion. At the same time, the Baron de Charlus pursues his own ill-advised romance.