Sojourn

A mysterious, subtle, haunting novel by Chris Power that explores the legacy of Berlin and the complexities of human attraction. The unnamed narrator becomes lost in the city, but eventually finds his way through its riddles and his own solitude.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: Faber & Faber

Berlin, a city steeped in Western history and teeming with cultural divides, becomes the backdrop for a captivating and enigmatic novel. An unnamed man arrives in Berlin as a visiting professor, navigating its streets, pavements, department stores, museums, and restaurants. In this unfamiliar city, he forms unlikely friendships with Faqrul, an enigmatic exiled poet, and Birgit, a woman who captivates him with her complexities. As he delves deeper into the city's legacy, the narrator finds himself lost not only in its physical landscape but also in its profound significance.

Sequestered in his own solitude, the narrator eagerly awaits a transformation and a sense of purpose. As his visiting professorship draws to a close, he begins to realize that the less certain he becomes of his place in the present moment, the more he understands his path.

Chaudhuri has already established himself as a writer of exceptional talent, showcasing his ability to craft narratives that surpass the achievements of many of his contemporaries. Jonathan Coe, in his endorsement, praises Chaudhuri's writing, acknowledging his exceptional skill and the profound impact his work has on readers.

Berlin, with its rich tapestry of history and its complex social dynamics, serves as the perfect setting for this captivating novel. Through the eyes of the unnamed professor, readers are invited to explore the depths of human connection, the complexities of identity, and the search for meaning in a world that is constantly evolving. As the narrator unravels the mysteries of Berlin, he discovers that the journey itself holds the key to his own transformation and enlightenment.

Weight: 126g
Dimension: 128 x 199 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780571360352
Edition number: Main