First published 1967
Harry Haller, an intellectual loner, sees only meaningless frivolity in the world around him. Contemplating suicide, he has a chance meeting that makes him reconsider his bleak outlook. As he starts to explore new ways to enjoy life, Harry must confront his own loneliness and suffering. At the emotional core, this is a story about the possibility of transcendence and healing, even for the most isolated and anguished of souls.
Genres: literary-fiction, 20th-century, adult-fiction, german-literature
Vibes: atmospheric, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: character-study, introspective
Setting: Germany
Period: Early 20th century, 1920s, 20th century
248 pages · Paperback · Bantam
Content warnings: depression, suicide