The shores of the Syrtes tell the story of the Republic of Orsenna, which has been heading towards its downfall for some time. Memories of its former greatness keep it alive. The war against Farghestan across the Sea of Syrtes, which began 300 years ago, has turned into a Cold War. Ado, a nobleman, wants to overcome the lethargy. In this novel, Gracq explores how a person confronts their fate. How does one decide to act in the face of an event with unknown consequences? Should one engage or wait? Ado does not wait and acts rather unconsciously, as he inadvertently approaches Farghestan too closely during an outing.