La Confusion des sentiments is a profound novella by Stefan Zweig that explores the intricate emotions and passions of a young student. At the twilight of his life, a seasoned professor reflects on an adventure that left an indelible mark on his existence. At nineteen, he was captivated by the charismatic personality of one of his professors, leading to a complex mix of idolization, submission, and a near-morbid love.

Freud himself acknowledged the precision and truth with which Zweig depicted the turmoil of a passion and the discomfort it causes to its subject. Published in 1926, this brief yet deep story achieved rapid success due to its bold and novel subject matter. It undoubtedly remains one of the masterpieces of the great Austrian writer.

The story unfolds as a young man, initially lost in the wilds of Berlin, is sent to a provincial university by his father. There, a brilliant lecture ignites in him a fervent passion for learning and a peculiar fascination with the aging professor who delivered the talk. The young man becomes a frequent visitor to the professor's home, which he shares with his much younger wife, and encourages him to complete his long-gestating scholarly work. However, the professor's behavior oscillates between welcoming and scornful, leaving the young man puzzled and wounded.

It is the professor's wife who comprehends the situation fully and helps the young man understand the complex dynamics at play. This novella is not just a tale of academic life but an exploration of the heart's tumultuous journey, a celebration of intellectual passion, and a reflection on the often-painful intersections of personal and professional admiration.