"Hygiene and the Assassin" is a novel by French author Amélie Nothomb. The story revolves around a famous writer, Prétextat Tach, who is terminally ill and is visited by a young journalist, Marie. Their conversations explore themes of life, death, and the nature of fame. The narrative delves into the contrasting perspectives of the characters, particularly focusing on Tach's disdain for societal norms, including hygiene. As the plot unfolds, the interactions between Marie and Tach reveal deeper insights into human behavior and the complexities of personal relationships.