Sigismond (Joe Dallesandro) is a man lost in an erotic haze which clouds his judgment.
Early in the film, it is evident that the man has a physically passionate relationship with his wife, with whom he has a son.
While on a business trip to Paris, he comes under the spell of a famous, beautiful prostitute (Sylvia Kristel) who resembles his wife.
However, his efforts to monopolize her attention are not appreciated by her pimp, and he is severely beaten.
When he gets a letter informing him of the death of his wife and son, he is totally devastated.