Amazing Grace

The Hunchback of Notre Dame remains a classic tale of betrayal, lost love, and eternal longings. This story is haunting and beautiful, in a simple, yet powerful manner, that speaks to the very soul.

The story is told by the author, Victor Hugo, in a fairly straight forward, unapologetic tone. Like other works by Hugo he eloquently states the facts, and let the emotions fall where they may.

Not at all politically correct, and in fact, politically rebellious in real life, Victor Hugo tackles this story of a deformed, abused recluse with compassion and understanding beyond mere words.

He leads us through the story, from the moment of Quasimoto's separation from his mother, to the moment he gathers Esmerelda into his arms, our hearts and hope are with him. That he will rise above and beyond his tormentor and master. That he will share love with the beautiful Esmerelda, although she only has eyes for the treacherous and cold Phoebus.

This is a must read for anyone who loves romantic fiction.

I would also like to recommend, for anyone with time to spare, that you look at some of Victor Hugo's poetry. Though usually only available in French, there is one poem in particular, "Demain des L'aube" that has always spoken to my heart and, in fact, I have one of the lines from this piece embossed on my checks, because of its deep implications. The poem was written by Hugo after his daughter drowned, as he was walking to see her tomb. He is in deep mourning, and the last line of the second stanza reads, "Triste, et le jour pour moi sera comme la nuit."
Translated this line reads, "Sad, and the day for me becomes like night".

Powerful, indeed. I hope you have an opportunity to read more of this soulful poetry, and I recommend "The Hunchback of Notre Dame".