Le Papa de Simon
short story by Guy de Maupassant
Le papa de Simon is a book written by Guy de Maupassant. The book tells the story of a young boy Simon who has no father. Simon is harassed at school by his classmates because he doesn't have a father. Tired of this mockery, Simon decides to drown in the river, but is stopped by the blacksmith Philippe. It's a perfect opportunity for the little boy, who makes him an immediate deal: if Philippe agrees to play the role of father, he won't drown. If he refuses, he will return to the river.