Reflecting on the arts.

The theme of the novel is not the biography of the character that is decadent Des Esseintes: rich man, having experienced all states of lust and decides to isolate itself from the world to recreate an artificial world in his own house in order to contemplate at leisure ... This novel is rather different thoughts on the arts (painting, literary, culinary and others) he draws from his contemplations and hallucinations that devour it.
Thus, this novel is the analysis of many works of art - which, if they are not known by the reader, do not facilitate the reading of the text. Yet these reflections on art are more interesting and show a very thorough analysis of the works discussed, always of great finesse and allow a clear view of the links between the different arts.
What makes this picturesque novel is the fervor with which the character is to describe and appreciate the works and decadent creations of his time. Yet throughout the narrative, we realize the ambiguous relation that the protagonist with religion in which he did not believe.
What distinguishes this novel many others is the fact that what matters is not what happens to the character, but rather the thoughts that the author brings out in his mind, and his words made him say.
This reading is rewarding if one is interested in art in general, but I think she repel readers in search of adventure. You decide which player you are.