This novel tells the story of Angélique, a young girl from a humble background who possesses a beautiful singing voice. Angélique dreams of becoming an opera singer, and the narrative follows her journey as she navigates the world of opera, love, and ambition.
Set against the backdrop of the Second Empire in France, "The Dream" explores themes of social class, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams in a society filled with challenges and constraints.
Émile Zola's novel is known for its vivid portrayal of Parisian life, its detailed depiction of the opera world, and its commentary on the societal forces that impact the lives of its characters.
"The Dream" is considered one of Zola's lesser-known works compared to some of his more famous novels, but it still showcases his talent for portraying human desires, ambitions, and the impact of social environments on individual aspirations.