May Summary and Analysis

The first of May is a national holiday in France and to celebrate, the Mayles mount the bicycles they purchased in Cavaillon and head out on the country roads. They enjoy the scenery, the scent of lavender, rosemary, and wild thyme, until they begin the climb to Bonnieux, which is very strenuous. Their muscles protest, until they arrive at the Cafy Clerici where they are handed beer and sit in soft chairs. They continue their bike ride up to the ruins of the Marquis de Sade's chwteau and an older, wiry man passes them on his bicycle. He returns to ride with them into Lacoste, and then enjoys a refreshment with them at another cafy. When the Mayles return home, they dive into their pool, as welcoming as Heaven.

One day Faustin, in his round-about way, asks the Mayles if he...