Description
Discover the profound depths of 'Melancholy I-II', an evocative novel that immerses you in the turbulent psyche of 19th-century Norwegian artist Lars Hertervig. Published by Fitzcarraldo Editions in 2024, this compelling narrative weaves together Hertervig's luminous landscapes and tragic life with a rich exploration of mental illness. As you follow the story, you'll experience the wild and feverish thoughts that accompany Hertervig's breakdown, brilliantly captured by renowned author Jon Fosse. This evocative tale captures the beauty and turmoil of unrequited love, artistic struggle, and the haunting shadows of insanity. Hertervig's desperate fixation on Helene Winckelmann, his landlady's daughter, serves as a poignant backdrop to his artistic journey, filled with lyrical flights of passion and harrowing sexual delusions. 'Melancholy I-II' is not just a story about an artist; it's a reflection on the depths of human emotion and existential despair. With stirring themes of love and loss, this major work invites readers to explore the fine line between genius and madness. Now available in English for the first time, this novel stands as a significant contribution to contemporary literature, affirming Fosse’s reputation as 'the Beckett of the twenty-first century' (Le Monde). Uncover the haunting artistry and intense psychological insights of 'Melancholy I-II' - a must-read for lovers of literary fiction and psychological tales.