The novel opens with the birth of Athalie Greensleeve into a modest household, where her mother immediately senses something unusual about her child. As Athalie grows, she perceives the world with an uncommon sensitivity that blends beauty with unease. Within her own family, this difference sets her apart, fostering isolation and inner uncertainty rather than understanding. Athalie struggles to determine whether her heightened perception is a gift or a burden. The first half carefully traces the formation of her inner world and her early awareness of being different from those around her.
