<p>A Life (Une vie) by Guy de Maupassant is a poignant novel that explores the illusions of youth, the harsh realities of life, and the constraints imposed by societal expectations. The story follows Jeanne, a naive and idealistic young woman from an aristocratic family, whose dreams of love and happiness are gradually shattered by betrayal, disillusionment, and the weight of tradition. Through Jeanne's experiences, Maupassant paints a vivid pic...