# Dedication explained — The Lily of the Valley

> Chapter companion for The Lily of the Valley by Honoré de Balzac.

## What happens

Balzac dedicates his work to Dr. J. B. Nacquart, honoring him as both a physician who saved his life and a cherished friend.

## Character check-ins

### Félix de Vandenesse

Implied as the authorial voice through Balzac's dedication, linking the narrative to the author's personal gratitude.

## Key lines

> Here is one of the most highly wrought stones of the second story of a literary edifice that is being slowly and laboriously constructed; I wish to set your name here, as much to thank the physician who once saved my life as to do honor to the friend of every day.

This work is a carefully crafted part of a larger literary project, and I inscribe your name to express gratitude for saving my life and to celebrate our daily friendship.

_Balzac uses architectural metaphor to describe his literary series and personalizes the dedication with dual motives of thanks and honor._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lily_of_the_valley_se/chapters/dedication
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lily_of_the_valley_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_lily_of_the_valley_se/chapters