This isn't a book with a plot in the usual sense. It's a window into a life interrupted. Charles d'Orléans was a French prince captured at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. He spent the next 25 years as a prisoner in England. Instead of chronicling battles, he wrote hundreds of poems, mostly rondeaux and ballades. They capture the slow passage of time in captivity—the longing for home ("Douce France"), the melancholy of winter, the fragile hope of spring, and the bittersweet nature of love and memory.

Why You Should Read It

What shocked me was how relatable it feels. Charles’s poetry isn't flowery or distant. It’s introspective and honest. He personifies his heart as a separate, often weary, companion. He watches nature closely because it's one of the few things he can still connect with. His famous poem on the word "Plus" ("More") plays with the idea of absence and longing in a way that feels clever and deeply human. You get the sense of a sharp mind making art out of limitation, finding a quiet voice amidst great noise.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves quiet, thoughtful writing or has an interest in medieval history beyond kings and knights. It's also a great pick for poetry skeptics—the short forms and clear emotions are an easy entry point. If you've ever enjoyed the reflective stillness in the works of Mary Oliver or the pared-down beauty of Japanese haiku, you'll find a kindred spirit in this 15th-century prince. This collection is a gentle, enduring reminder of the human capacity to create beauty, no matter the circumstances.