I Make Envy on Your Disco: A Novel

I Make Envy on Your Disco is a novel that explores the anxiety of midlife and the past and present of Berlin. It follows Sam Singer, a 37-year-old art advisor, who travels to Berlin to attend a gallery opening and finds himself in a city facing an identity crisis. He explores the city, meets new people, and confronts his past and future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2024
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Winner of the Barbara DiBernard Prize in Fiction, I Make Envy on Your Disco is a captivating exploration of the anxiety of midlife and the search for identity in the new millennium. Set against the backdrop of Berlin, a city steeped in history and culture, the novel follows the journey of Sam Singer, a thirty-seven-year-old art advisor who embarks on a transformative trip to the city. Fed up with his partner and his life in New York, Sam seeks solace in Berlin, where he discovers a once-divided city grappling with its own identity crisis.

As he immerses himself in the vibrant streets, candlelit cafés, and techno clubs of Berlin, Sam is transported back in time. The city's graffiti-stained streets, historic monuments, and memorials serve as a haunting reminder of its past. However, it is in the midst of this historical richness that Sam finds a profound connection and sense of possibility.

The trip, which begins in isolation, evolves into a journey of self-discovery and growth. Sam meets a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique story and perspective. He befriends Jeremy, a lonely wannabe DJ who introduces Sam to the underground music scene of Berlin. He also sparks a flirtation with Kaspar, an East Berlin artist he encounters at a café. And he finds himself drawn to Magda, the enigmatic and icy manager of Sams hotel, who captivates Sam with her complexity and allure.

Through his interactions with these characters, Sam confronts his own past and the person he once was. He realizes that his life in New York had become stagnant and unfulfilling, and he longs for a change. He begins to question his own desires and aspirations, and he starts to carve out a new path for himself.

I Make Envy on Your Disco is a tribute to Berlin, a city that has inspired countless artists and writers. The novel captures the essence of Berlin's energy, its vibrant spirit, and its ability to transform and inspire. It is a novel of longing and connection, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the search for meaning in life.

At the same time, it is a coming-of-middle-age story that delves into the challenges and rewards of confronting the person you were and becoming the person you want to be. Sam Singer's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He faces his fears, doubts, and insecurities head-on and emerges stronger and more confident.

In conclusion, I Make Envy on Your Disco is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the anxiety of midlife and the search for identity in the new millennium. Set against the backdrop of Berlin, a city that has always been a symbol of change and possibility, the novel explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of connection, and the journey of self-discovery. With its rich prose, vivid characters, and atmospheric setting, I Make Envy on Your Disco is a must-read for anyone who loves literature and the exploration of the human experience.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496239013