And the I'm going to be. Welcome to the newscast, the podcast designed to help you fall asleep.

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This episode is supported by Sunny Hammock Naps.

Tonight, we'll be reading the opening to the fantastic classic Madam Bovery.

It was the debut novel of French writer Gustav Flaubert,

published in 1856.

Madame Bovery lives beyond her means in order to escape the banalities and emptiness of provincial life.

A seminal work of literary realism the novel is now

considered Flaubert's masterpiece and one of the most influential literary works in history. Let's get cozy. Close your eyes. Relax your body into the softness of your bed.

Now, take a few deep breaths.

Madam Bovary, Part 1, Chapter 1

We were in class when the Headmaster came in, followed by a new fellow, not wearing the school uniform,

and a school servant carrying a large desk.

Those who had been asleep woke up,

and everyone rose as if just surprised at his work. The headmaster made a sign for us to sit down.

Then turning to the classmaster, he said to him in a low voice,

Monsieur Rogi, here is a pupil whom I recommend to your care.

He'll be in the second, If his work and conduct are satisfactory, he will go into

one of the upper classes, as becomes his age.

...