A biographical novel about a great composer being written by the composer’s lifelong friend. But also an allegory of Germany’s progression from ~1900 until WWII. But also a confession of guilt from the author whose early political writings would find favor with the Nazis and cause regret during his later humanist bend (as detailed in “The Magic Mountain”).
More than three weeks with this novel and it wasn’t nearly enough time. This is worthwhile endeavor of a novel that requires perseverance, focus, and some degree of background knowledge of music and theology. While there is some overlap with “The Magic Mountain,” those topics are only a part of this much more encompassing novel which weaves together knowledge of music, theology, literature, philosophy, and psychology into a narrative on Germany’s cultural shift in the first half of the 20th century. Despite being the shortest of Mann’s most notable works, this is the most encompassing. And really there is no criticism that I’m qualified to give.
Now, a long break before “Jacob and His Brothers”…
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