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.

The first volume of one of the greatest novels of the twentieth century, in Lydia Davis's award-winning translation Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time is one of the most entertaining reading experiences in any language and arguably the finest novel of the twentieth century. But since its original prewar translation there has been no completely new version in English. Now, Penguin Classics brings Proust’s masterpiece to new audiences throughout the world, beginning with Lydia Davis’s internationally acclaimed translation of the first volume, Swann’s Way. Swann's Way is one of the preeminent novels of childhood: a sensitive boy's impressions of his family and neighbors, all brought dazzlingly back to life years later by the taste of a madeleine. It also enfolds the short novel "Swann in Love," an incomparable study of sexual jealousy that becomes a crucial part of the vast, unfolding structure of In Search of Lost Time. The first volume of the work that established Proust as one of the finest voices of the modern age—satirical, skeptical, confiding, and endlessly varied in his response to the human condition—Swann's Way also stands on its own as a perfect rendering of a life in art, of the past recreated through memory.

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).

Time Regained by Marcel Proust is the profound conclusion to his monumental novel sequence, In Search of Lost Time, and symbolizes a masterful exploration of the intricate relationship between memory and time. Within the pages of this evocative work, Proust invites readers to journey through the corridors of his protagonist's mind, a world filled with rich descriptions of life, art, and the essence of human experience. The narrative unfolds as Marcel grapples with the passage of time and the fleeting nature of reality, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of identity and self-discovery. As the story progresses, the protagonist encounters vibrant characters whose lives are woven intricately with his own. Through these connections, Proust elevates ordinary moments into profound revelations, showcasing the power of memory as it shapes our perception of the past. The narrative’s famous stream of consciousness style reveals the inner workings of the human mind, allowing readers to experience the ebb and flow of thoughts, feelings, and nostalgia in a beautifully organic manner. Proust’s eloquent prose and his exploration of Proustian themes offer insights into the society of his time, providing valuable context for contemporary readers. Through the lens of character development, he delves into emotional depth, illuminating the nuances of love, loss, and the inevitability of change. Time Regained demonstrates not only Proust's unparalleled skill as a writer, but also his ability to capture the essence of life itself. This novel is not merely a conclusion, but a celebration of the art of storytelling and the profound connections we forge over time. As readers immerse themselves in the timeless themes of this classic French novel, they will find themselves constantly reflecting on the intricate play of memory in their own lives. Proust’s talent for rich descriptive prose brings the world of his characters alive, making every encounter a vivid experience full of meaning and depth. In Time Regained, Marcel Proust offers an unforgettable literary journey that resonates across generations. By combining psychological fiction with philosophical exploration, he masterfully captures the complexities of human existence, making this work an essential read for those who seek to appreciate the beauty of life through the lens of modernist literature.

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.

In Search of Lost Time (French: À la recherche du temps perdu), also translated as Remembrance of Things Past, is a novel in seven volumes by Marcel Proust (1871-1922). It is his most prominent work, known both for its length and its theme of involuntary memory; the most famous example of this is the "episode of the madeleine," which occurs early in the first volume. It gained fame in English in translations by C. K. Scott Moncrieff and Terence Kilmartin as Remembrance of Things Past, but the title In Search of Lost Time, a literal rendering of the French, became ascendant after D. J. Enright adopted it for his revised translation published in 1992.In Search of Lost Time follows the narrator's recollections of childhood and experiences into adulthood in the late 19th century and early 20th century aristocratic France, while reflecting on the loss of time and lack of meaning to the world. The novel began to take shape in 1909. Proust continued to work on it until his final illness in the autumn of 1922 forced him to break off. Proust established the structure early on, but even after volumes were initially finished he kept adding new material and edited one volume after another for publication. The last three of the seven volumes contain oversights and fragmentary or unpolished passages, as they existed only in draft form at the death of the author; the publication of these parts was overseen by his brother Robert.

A new translation from the original French manuscripts of Marcel Proust's 1921 Reading Days (Journees de Lecture). This edition contains a new Afterword by the translator, a timeline of Proust's life and works and a glossary of philosophic concepts in his body of work. This is a compilation of Proust's intimate notes, reflections, and anecdotes about literature, art, and life. In this work, Proust delves into the transformative power of books, examining the emotional and intellectual impact of literature and the role of memory in reading. Through his musings on the connections between the reader, the author, and the text, Proust offers insights into his own reading habits and creative process. This collection provides valuable perspectives for scholars and enthusiasts seeking to understand Proust's literary sensibilities.

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 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