Who is this book for?
- Readers who would likely enjoy this book are those with a deep interest in European literature and culture, particularly German-language writers.
- Fans of Sebald's fiction who appreciate his unique prose style and preoccupations with memory, exile, and melancholy would find much to admire.
- Literary scholars and aspiring writers interested in seeing how a master author engages with his influences would benefit from Sebald's insights.
- Those who enjoy unconventional biographies that blur the lines between fact and fiction, and readers who like to make connections between different writers and historical periods would also find this book rewarding.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- This book would likely not appeal to readers looking for straightforward literary criticism or clear biographical narratives.
- Those unfamiliar with European literature or Sebald's style may find the essays challenging and obscure.
- Readers who prefer more upbeat or optimistic writing might be put off by Sebald's melancholic tone and focus on life's sadder aspects.
- Those who dislike digressive, meandering prose or who want clear arguments and conclusions may find the essays frustrating.
- General readers looking for an introduction to the featured writers would probably be better served by more conventional biographies or critical works.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Sebald's beautiful and effortless prose style, even in essay form
- Insightful connections drawn between the writers/artists and Sebald's own life and experiences
- Evocative descriptions of places associated with the subjects
- Illuminating biographical details and anecdotes about lesser-known writers
- Thoughtful reflections on the nature of writing and creativity
- Inclusion of interesting photographs and images to complement the text
- Sebald's unique ability to blend biography, autobiography, and literary criticism
- Exploration of themes like memory, exile, and the passage of time
- Poetic and moving tributes to writers who influenced Sebald
- Sebald's skill at finding profound meaning in small details and coincidences
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Can be difficult to follow without prior knowledge of the subjects
- Meandering and digressive style may frustrate some readers
- Focus on obscure writers that many readers are unfamiliar with
- Lack of traditional literary analysis or criticism
- Sebald's melancholic tone and focus on sad aspects of subjects' lives
- Essays can feel disconnected or lacking in clear structure
- Dense prose that requires careful, slow reading
- Assumes familiarity with European literary history and culture
- Not as engaging as Sebald's fiction for some readers
- Occasional obscure references that may be lost on general readers
