In this excerpt from "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame," the speaker expresses an intense obsession with another person, feeling haunted by their presence and idealization. The song associated with that person lingers in their mind, and their image dances in the background of daily life, making the speaker yearn to reconnect. There is a strong desire to reconcile the fantasy with reality, driven by the hope that seeing the person again will either fulfill or shatter the idealized vision they hold.

Upon finally encountering this individual, the speaker is struck by the overwhelming desire to see them repeatedly, showcasing a desperate need for connection. The narrator's feelings evolve from mere admiration to an insatiable craving for familiarity, suggesting that the initial enchantment transforms into a longing that cannot be easily satisfied. This captures the essence of how obsession can grow and lead to a deeper emotional conflict.