What Darkness Was

Inka Parei's novel "In What Darkness Was" explores a singular German mind in the midst of uncertainty and questions about identity, past, and presence. The old man lies in bed, grappling with his memories and the mysteries surrounding his life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2021
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

In the depths of his twilight years, an elderly man succumbs to exhaustion and clings to his bed, plagued by the ceaseless echoes of the night. The haunting melodies and mysterious whispers stir within him, unleashing a barrage of images, questions, and fragmented memories. Caught in a state of confusion and near-hysteria, the old man's mind reels as he desperately seeks answers to perplexing queries. Why has he inherited the building that now serves as his abode? Why has he abandoned the city that had been his lifelong home? Is his presence here truly voluntary, or is he being forced against his will? And who was that enigmatic stranger who lurked on the stairs, casting a shadow of suspicion over his existence? As he lies in bed, the old man realizes that these may be the final mysteries he ever unravels. Inka Parei, the acclaimed author of "The Shadow-Boxing Woman," invites readers to immerse themselves in the singular German mind. With a keen eye for detail and a relentless fascination with the intricacies of the human psyche, Parei's second novel in English paints a vibrant portrait of the West German soul, spanning from the tumultuous years of World War II to the tumultuous German Autumn of 1977.

Through her precise and observant prose, Parei delves into the depths of the old man's mind, offering a captivating glimpse into his inner world. The questions that plague him flow like a relentless river, each one more perplexing than the last. Why did he inherit the building he now calls home? Why did he leave the city that had been his sanctuary for decades? Is he truly present in this realm, or is he trapped in a state of limbo? And who was that enigmatic stranger who appeared on the stairs, casting a shadow of doubt over his existence? As the old man lies in bed, he confronts the harsh reality that these may be the last puzzles he ever solves. The weight of unanswered questions hangs heavy upon his soul, leaving him in a state of existential contemplation. Inka Parei's "In What Darkness Was" is a testament to her talent as a writer, as she skillfully weaves together a tapestry of emotions, memories, and introspection. Through her vivid prose, Parei transports readers into the depths of the German psyche, offering a profound exploration of the human condition. The novel's rich narrative and intricate character development allow readers to empathize with the old man's struggles and connect with his inner turmoil. As the night continues to unfold, the old man's mind wanders through a labyrinth of memories and questions, seeking solace in the fragments of his past. But as the dawn breaks, he realizes that the answers he seeks may never come. Inka Parei's "In What Darkness Was" is a haunting and introspective journey into the depths of the human mind. Through its vivid prose and compelling characters, the novel offers a profound reflection on the nature of existence, the complexities of memory, and the search for meaning in the face of uncertainty.

Weight: 164g
Dimension: 204 x 130 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857428325