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A review by john_pascoe
Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse
adventurous
dark
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"The unhappiness that I need and long for... is of the kind that will let me suffer with eagerness and die with lust. That is the unhappiness, or happiness, that I am waiting for."
Published in Germany, in 1927 (named Der Steppenwolf), Steppenwolf is another work of art presented through Hesse's characteristic writing style.
Throughout the novel, Herr Harry Haller realises he identifies with wolf qualities and human qualities. He is alienated from society; wild, strange and shy. His hopelessness and desire for death draw him into an enchanted Faustian underworld. Through a series of mysterious encounters - romantic, freakish and savage by turn - romanticist Haller begins to return to his youth and rediscover the lost dreams of his youth.
Even though many teenagers related to the events recounted in Steppenwolf, it was targeted at the middle-aged counterculture. Steppenwolf captured the mood of a disaffected generation that was starting to question all.
Underneath the novel's contention is an ulterior motive of Hesse's trademark philosophies; namely the concept of poles and their interactions.
Published in Germany, in 1927 (named Der Steppenwolf), Steppenwolf is another work of art presented through Hesse's characteristic writing style.
Throughout the novel, Herr Harry Haller realises he identifies with wolf qualities and human qualities. He is alienated from society; wild, strange and shy. His hopelessness and desire for death draw him into an enchanted Faustian underworld. Through a series of mysterious encounters - romantic, freakish and savage by turn - romanticist Haller begins to return to his youth and rediscover the lost dreams of his youth.
Even though many teenagers related to the events recounted in Steppenwolf, it was targeted at the middle-aged counterculture. Steppenwolf captured the mood of a disaffected generation that was starting to question all.
Underneath the novel's contention is an ulterior motive of Hesse's trademark philosophies; namely the concept of poles and their interactions.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicidal thoughts and Death
Moderate: Suicide