The Perfume of Eros: A Fifth Avenue Incident

"The Perfume of Eros: A Fifth Avenue Incident" by Edgar Saltus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in upper-class New York society, focusing on characters like Royal Loftus, Fanny Price, and Marie Durand, exploring themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations among the elite. The narrative likely delves into romantic entanglements and the complexities of human relationships against a backdrop of wealth and privilege. The opening of the novel introduces Royal Loftus, who lives with his domineering mother in the exclusive Gramercy Park area. As Loftus engages in conversation with Fanny Price, we learn about his versus her romantic interests and the societal pressures they face. The scene is filled with characters that represent New York elite, such as Sylvia Waldron and Annandale, who intertwine in flirtations, expectations, and playful banter during a dinner setting. This introduction sets the stage for a critique of both personal and societal ambitions, presenting a vibrant picture of early 20th-century aristocratic life and hinting at romantic developments and social commentary to come.