Madame Thérèse

A young narrator lives a quiet, almost timeless life in the Alpine village of Anstatt, under the gentle roof of his uncle, a respected doctor, and the watchful eye of the elderly housekeeper Lisbeth. The daily routine is painted in warm, rustic detail—sun‑lit kitchens, playful trips with village boys, and the simple pleasures of catching songbirds and cooking potatoes in the ash. The narrator’s world is one of calm rhythms, shared meals, and stories whispered in the glow of the hearth.

One evening, the familiar peace is interrupted by the arrival of a squat, trench‑coated figure known as the “taupier,” whose gruff voice and stark appearance stand out against the homely setting. His presence hints at a wider world beyond the valley, suggesting that the tranquil life the children have known may soon face new challenges. Listeners are invited to step into this richly described childhood, feeling both the comfort of tradition and the subtle pull of change.