:23:01
You attacked the Second Empire.
You attacked the Third Republic.
:23:05
Germinal caused a furor and unrest
among the miners that lasted for years.
:23:11
- Nana: Brutal, disgusting.
- But true.
:23:15
All of them stirring France
to restlessness, angry passion.
:23:19
And now this Downfall,
attacking our army.
:23:23
The army heads are furious.
:23:25
Such a book makes the whole country
lose confidence and respect.
:23:28
Lose confidence in inefficiency?
:23:31
Lose respect for cowardice and stupidity?
:23:34
- That would be a pity, monsieur.
- You'll write no more such books.
:23:38
Except, perhaps, one about the rascality
of army-ridden politicians.
:23:43
That's an idea.
To expose the government itself...
:23:47
...with as much truth and accuracy
as I put into The Downfall.
:23:51
- A book that would show...
- No, no. I mean...
:23:54
...you're a reasonable man,
Monsieur Zola.
:23:56
We only want to do
what we think is best for our country.
:24:00
You will do what is best for yourself...
:24:02
...by leaving me strictly alone
to write what I please, as I please.
:24:08
Good day, monsieur.
:24:59
That's the funniest thing I've...