Although Anna B. Ragde or Norwegian, this story is mainly Danish. If in the work of the novelist, there are characters from comfortable backgrounds, here are the classes that dominate. The sordid prevails, living conditions, incest, alcoholism, abortions, premature death. Yet a spring breath flies on the whole, the "paradise" of allotments, the presence of the sea, the poetry of the porcelain painter, music. You learn a lot about certain circles, a family of a country parson, a modest Jewish family ... a family of innkeepers small theaters. The characters are endearing because they all have human qualities, "innocence", confidence in the future. Love is an important, but it leads to fiascos. Men and women are the naive victims. The paternal or maternal love is very selective, some children are adored others rejected. This long novel reads very quickly as it is exciting, well written. To read.