"The Square" is a short story written by the French author Marguerite Duras. It was first published in 1955 as part of a collection of short stories titled "Ten-Thirty on a Summer Night" ("Dix heures et demie du soir en été" in French). Marguerite Duras is known for her minimalist writing style and her exploration of complex human emotions and relationships. "The Square" is a poignant narrative that revolves around a chance encounter between a man and a woman in a square. Set against the backdrop of post-war France, the story delves into themes of loneliness, desire, and the fleeting nature of human connection. Through sparse yet evocative prose, Duras captures the essence of the characters' inner turmoil and the intensity of their brief interaction. The square serves as a symbolic space where the characters' lives intersect momentarily, offering them a glimpse of intimacy and solace before they part ways. Duras masterfully portrays the bittersweet beauty of such fleeting encounters and the profound impact they can have on individuals. Overall, "The Square" is a haunting exploration of the human condition, showcasing Duras's remarkable ability to convey profound emotions with economy of language.