The novel is set against the backdrop of the Seine River, which divides Paris into two distinct cultural and social spheres. The story revolves around the lives of the characters who inhabit these two "banks" or sides of the river, each representing different facets of Parisian life and society.Through the interactions and experiences of the characters, Vandérem examines the contrasts and connections between these two worlds. The novel delves into themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations, highlighting how the characters' lives and destinies are shaped by their environments and personal choices.