Go, Went, Gone -

Jenny Erpenbeck

New Directions

2015

286 páginas

9h 32m

ISBN-13: 9780811225946

o, Went, Gone is the masterful new novel by the acclaimed German writer Jenny Erpenbeck, “one of the most significant German-language novelists of her generation” (The Millions). The novel tells the tale of Richard, a retired classics professor who lives in Berlin. His wife has died, and he lives a routine existence until one day he spies some African refugees staging a hunger strike in Alexanderplatz. Curiosity turns to compassion and an inner transformation, as he visits their shelter, interviews them, and becomes embroiled in their harrowing fates. Go, Went, Gone is a scathing indictment of Western policy toward the European refugee crisis, but also a touching portrait of a man who finds he has more in common with the Africans than he realizes. Exquisitely translated by Susan Bernofsky, Go, Went, Gone addresses one of the most pivotal issues of our time, facing it head-on in a voice that is both nostalgic and frightening.

Resenhas (1)

4 (Muito bom)

Reflexive reading

Go, Went, Gone is a highly valuable book for anyone wanting to better understand the complex situation of immigrants and refugees in Germany. I thought the writing was exceptionally sensitive and poignant, prompting me to think deeply about the countless stories and the immense strength people must have to try a new life on a new continent under such difficult conditions. The novel effectively addresses the preconceptions people hold against those who often arrive with nowhere to go and who simply seek an opportunity to work. It is a sad and touching read, but it also beautifully highlights the human capability for adapting and the powerful will to secure a better life.