"A Burnt-Out Case" is, in fact, a study of a man who happens to have burnt out on life in a metaphorical sense.
The man in the discussion is Querry, an internationally famous architect. He grows disillusioned with his talent, his name and fame, and his love life.
Querry takes a big decision. To escape his present situation, he decides to escape into the jungles of the French Congo. Having entered the jungles, he ends up at a leproserie.
The story revolves around Querry who lives a meaningless life there. Eventually, he goes back to his meaningful life. The story describes the problems he faces when a local palm oil merchant, Rycker, recognizes him.
A Quick Guide to "A Burnt-Out Case"
Copyright
Chapter One: Introduction
Chapter Two: Plot Overview
Chapter Three: Characters
Chapter Four: Complete Summary
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
Chapter Five: Thematic Analysis