
Just finished it, I read it in English 25 years ago and now in French. There's this extraordinary feeling of being immersed in something that really merits a lifetime's attention -- suddenly there's a bit of philosophical reflection which breaks in which is hard, the sort of thing that could be the basis of an academic seminar. A theme caught my attention most, which is to do with knowing people, what it is to get to know someone, their essence, what makes them unique.
The second part,
Nom de pays - le pays left the strongest mark on me.
I had forgotten how wonderful the writing is when Marcel first arrives at Balbec, his description of the crowd, the social interactions of the people. And of course the internal turmoil caused by the new scenery -- a break with his habit.
Such a pleasure to meet the band of pubescent girls again! They're so full of life!
Who was Elstir? I mean, in real life.
Anyway, on to
Le Cote de Guermantes.