Lucien is a young poet back in 19th century France with lots of aspirations for life. He left his printing press family to try his luck in Paris. In the fabulous city, Lucien will discover the backstage of a world manipulated by the law of profit and pretence. In Balzac’s human comedy, the press resembles literature when everything is bought and sold: politics, feelings, reputations and souls alike. Lucien will love, suffer, and survive his illusions.