This isn't a book with a traditional plot. Instead, it's a window into a man's soul during decades of forced stillness. After being captured at the Battle of Agincourt, Prince Charles d'Orléans spent 25 years in English castles. With his political life frozen, he turned inward. His poetry became his world. He writes of love—often lost or unattainable. He observes the changing seasons with a prisoner's sharp eye for passing time. He personifies abstract ideas like Melancholy and Fortune as characters in his internal drama. The 'story' is the quiet journey of a man finding freedom and purpose through language, even while his body was confined.

Why You Should Read It

I was shocked by how relatable these 600-year-old poems are. Charles doesn't write about grand battles or court politics. He writes about watching leaves fall and feeling a pang of sadness, or about the heart's stubborn hope. His voice is gentle, reflective, and often witty. There's a profound resilience here. He didn't let his circumstances crush his spirit; he refined it into art. Reading this feels like a form of meditation. It slows you down and makes you notice the small, beautiful, and bittersweet moments in your own life.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves lyrical, thoughtful writing and a touch of history. If you enjoy poets like Rumi or Mary Oliver for their introspection, you'll find a kindred spirit in Charles. It's also a great pick for readers curious about medieval life but wanting a personal, emotional entry point rather than dry facts. This collection is a quiet masterpiece of survival through creativity, and its gentle wisdom still resonates powerfully today.