I was extremely curious to read this book

as it happens to be Ionesco's only novel, and I have already read several of his plays.

The very first thing that caught my attention was that it was significantly less quirky or eccentric compared to the plays.

In fact, it only started to become odd towards the conclusion.

Nonetheless, I did enjoy reading it and could empathize with the protagonist to a certain extent.

However, I would not recommend it to those who are seeking wit, paradox, or sheer madness in their literary works.

It has its own charm and qualities, but it doesn't quite deliver in those specific aspects that some readers might be looking for.

"Vous êtes de la brume"

When the absurd meets otherness, that is the profoundly human.

It is about being able to see the light behind the starry holes.

This short phrase seems to capture a moment of profound realization. The idea of being "de la brume," or of the mist, implies a certain ephemerality and mystery. It suggests that we are often in a state of uncertainty, like a mist that can be difficult to define or understand.

And when the absurd encounters otherness, something truly human emerges. It is in these moments of contrast and difference that we are forced to confront our own assumptions and beliefs. We are challenged to see the world from a different perspective and to find meaning in the seemingly meaningless.

The ability to see the light behind the starry holes is a metaphor for our capacity to find hope and beauty in even the darkest of situations. It reminds us that there is always a glimmer of something better, if only we are willing to look for it.

In conclusion, "Vous êtes de la brume" is a powerful and evocative phrase that speaks to the essence of what it means to be human. It challenges us to embrace the absurd, to engage with otherness, and to always keep our eyes open for the light.

This is now a companion of mine.

A clerk who, by a stroke of luck, receives an inheritance. This windfall enables him to break free from the rat race, that never-ending cycle of work and stress.

Now, he devotes himself wholeheartedly to observing and meditating on the human condition. He admits, "From time to time, especially during adolescence, I had been troubled by the mystery of the Universe."

This account of his thoughts and musings may not pretend to be a great literary work. However, it is an odd and yet reassuring ramble through the mind of a person from a different era.

It offers a unique perspective, a glimpse into the inner workings of a soul that has chosen a different path.

As I read his words, I find myself drawn in, intrigued by his insights and the simplicity of his approach.

It serves as a reminder that sometimes, in the midst of our modern chaos, we can find solace and inspiration in the thoughts of those who came before us.

In general, it is indeed an interesting story. However, in my opinion, the parts where the protagonist engages in extensive philosophical musings are not well-balanced with the actual narrative. They go on for too long, even though they surely have engaging passages. Also, the ending is not to my taste and not really suitable as a conclusion.

Overall, I would dare to recommend this book. It was anything but poor as a whole. There were long-winded and lesser parts, that's for sure. But the overall picture that we are presented with is worth the effort.

The story has its strengths and weaknesses. The engaging passages draw the reader in and make them want to know more. However, the excessive philosophical digressions can sometimes disrupt the flow of the story. The ending, too, could have been more satisfying and in line with the rest of the narrative.

Despite these flaws, the book still manages to hold the reader's attention and offer a unique reading experience. It makes you think and reflects on various aspects of life and human nature. So, if you are looking for a book that is not afraid to explore deeper themes and is willing to overlook some of its imperfections, then this book might be worth a read.

An incredible surprise, purchased on a whim. I had never read anything by Ionesco before this. But now, I imagine that I'll be devouring all the works of his that I can get my hands on in the near future. This novel, which happens to be the only one Ionesco ever wrote, has had such a profound impact on me that I scarcely know what to say. It's truly a remarkable piece of literature. And I see no point in attempting to explain or elaborate further. This is because I am fairly certain that nobody I know would be able to find anything to like in its pages. It's a work that seems to be beyond the comprehension and appreciation of the average person. But for me, it's a literary treasure that I will cherish and continue to explore.

**Überzeugend melodiöser Abgesang auf die eigenen Ambitionen, der aber ins narrative Nichts abgleitet**

The content of this work is rather a mixed bag. With a score of 3 out of 5 stars for content, it presents a convincing portrayal of a depressive vortex. However, it lacks in depth and fails to fully engage the reader. The form, on the other hand, fares better with 4 out of 5 stars. The narrative is presented in a dry, concise, and harmonious manner, which suits the theme well.

The first-person narrator, unfortunately, receives only 2 out of 5 stars. The inconsistent narrative voice detracts from the overall experience. As the story progresses, the narrator descends into madness, making it unclear who is actually telling the story. This lack of coherence makes it difficult for the reader to connect with the character.

The composition also leaves much to be desired, with a score of 2 out of 5 stars. The last quarter of the book feels forced and constructed, leaving the reader unsatisfied. The events and hallucinations become increasingly unclear, and the narrative loses its grip.

Overall, the reading experience is a disappointment, with a score of 2 out of 5 stars. While the book starts off well, it quickly deteriorates into a jumble of undefined and unconvincing elements. It seems as if the author ran out of ideas and resorted to a random and unsatisfactory conclusion.

In the genre of "male-desperate single" literature, there are several notable works, such as Jean-Paul Sartre's *Der Ekel*, Heinrich Böll's *Ansichten eines Clowns*, and Michel Houellebecq's *Ausweitung der Kampfzone*. Eugène Ionesco's *Der Einzelgänger* initially shows promise, but ultimately fails to deliver.

The story follows a 35-year-old office worker who inherits a large sum of money and retreats to a suburb to drink and eat himself into madness. The supporting characters, including André the philosopher and Yvonne the waitress, add some depth to the narrative, but they are not fully developed.

The book's themes of existentialism, loneliness, and the search for meaning are explored, but not in a particularly profound or original way. The descent into madness feels forced and unconvincing, and the ending is abrupt and unsatisfactory.

Despite its flaws, *Der Einzelgänger* does have some redeeming qualities. The writing style is简洁明了 and the atmosphere of depression and isolation is well-conveyed. However, these strengths are not enough to overcome the book's many weaknesses.

In conclusion, *Der Einzelgänger* is a disappointing read that fails to live up to its potential. While it may appeal to some readers interested in existentialist literature, it is ultimately a flawed and unfulfilling work.

Details – ab hier Spoilergefahr (zur Erinnerung für mich):
The main character is a 35-year-old without a name who inherits money and becomes increasingly insane due to loneliness. The supporting characters include André, Yvonne, and a nameless concierge. The plot involves the character's descent into madness after the loss of Yvonne and his experiences with hallucinations and street riots. The book's themes of existentialism, loneliness, and the search for meaning are explored, but the inconsistent narrative voice and forced ending detract from the overall experience.

Ionesco's only novel presents an everyman who is neither an artist nor a saint but is powerfully confronted with the profound question of his own existence. As the narrator grapples with familiar yet insoluble koans, a deep sense of recognition and pity emerges. The narrator's encounter with a scholar is one of the highlights. The scholar dismisses his questions as ordinary, but the narrator passionately defends their significance, stating that for him, they are crucial and shake him to the core. Later, a civil war breaks out, and the book can be seen as having a reactionary or anti-revolutionary stance, lacking faith in the progress of the state. Meng-hu's review acknowledges the book's late appearance in the sequence of existential literature and commends the narrator's identifiable mental illness and alcohol-fueled escapism. The cover was designed by Roy Kuhlman, famous for his Grove Beckett book covers, and the translation was done by Richard Seaver. It's a thought-provoking work that can be picked up from your local library.

Despite its somewhat plodding pace at times, the novel is truly wonderful, like a wise, avuncular speech that may get tedious but is still loved. It delves deep into the human condition and forces us to confront our own existence and the void at the foundation of our knowledge and morality.

The passing of time in the book is beautifully crafted, with years passing almost imperceptibly differently from hours. This adds to the overall atmosphere and sense of realism.

Overall, Ionesco's novel is a must-read for those interested in existential literature and the exploration of the human psyche.

Many people have tried to write this book. Some failed miserably. Others not so badly, but in the end, they simply couldn't make it.

Finally, I found it. If you are also looking for it, this is it. Enjoy.

This book seems to hold a certain allure that has attracted numerous attempts at creation. The failures, whether blatant or more subtle, only serve to heighten the mystery and desirability of the final product. And now, having discovered it, one can't help but feel a sense of anticipation and excitement. It's as if a hidden treasure has been unearthed, waiting to be explored and savored. So, go ahead and embark on this literary journey. Let the words transport you to another world and see where this book takes you.

The universe in the protagonist's mind is much vaster than the physical universe in the novel.

It is a book about existence as a lack of activity, perceived by a spectator who looks at everything until everything loses any compositional logic.

The anxiety that we cannot know everything and that we don't know what that "reality" is can be found both in moments of realism and in those of surrealism.

So what could be a possible answer to such an existence?

"To look at people with a mix of interest and detachment. It's beautiful. I had reasons to be happy. Why not take advantage of everything you can see with your eyes, of everything you can hear with your ears. To be at the same time surrounded by all these things and outside of them. A spectator on the stage, in the middle of the actors."

This perspective offers a unique way of experiencing the world, allowing one to both engage and distance oneself, finding beauty and meaning in the midst of the chaos and uncertainty of existence.

He might have been very weak in order to understand that love with me would not lead to failure.

Love is a complex emotion that can bring both joy and pain. Sometimes, people may have doubts or insecurities about their relationships. In this case, the person feels that the other might not be strong enough to handle the challenges that come with loving them.

However, it's important to remember that love is not about being perfect or having all the answers. It's about two people coming together, supporting each other, and growing together. Maybe the person who feels weak needs to work on their self-confidence and belief in themselves. Or perhaps they need to communicate more openly with their partner about their fears and concerns.

In the end, only time will tell if their love will succeed or fail. But one thing is for sure, they should not give up too easily. Love is worth fighting for, and with patience, understanding, and a willingness to work through difficulties, anything is possible.

I know that I am not like other people, I am a psychologist. However, I am also like all people, like all people of my era: skeptical, frustrated, tiring, tired, and a living being without motivation; to the extent that I can do little. I am also a bit skeptical, and good food and drink are sometimes a good thing to escape from this bitterness and the all-encompassing and universal boredom.

I often find myself in a state of confusion and self-doubt. Despite my knowledge and training in psychology, I struggle to understand my own emotions and motivations.

I look around at the people in my life and see the same patterns of dissatisfaction and restlessness. We are all searching for something, but it seems that no one really knows what it is.

Maybe this is just a part of being human, a part of the journey we all must take. But sometimes, it can be a very lonely and discouraging place.

I continue to try to find meaning and purpose in my life, to make sense of the chaos and confusion. I hope that one day, I will be able to break free from this cycle of doubt and find true happiness and fulfillment.

The story is about a 35-year-old man who is in search of happiness and the meaning of existence. However, rather than finding an answer, he gets lost in his own questions. He opens himself up in the hope of finding joy in his life, but in reality, the situation only gets worse.

The world of the book and its narrative reminded me of Beckett's writings (but without citation and with direct conversations), and also Sartre's "Nausea" (albeit much more realistic and less overwhelming).

What I liked about the book was precisely this realism. That is, the concerns and the absurd world of the story did not seem at all overwhelming, and even in places where the actions of the main character were overwhelming in the face of events, it was still completely understandable.

Another point was the portrayal of the human war processes, which were beautifully depicted. That even within a party, they would fight each other to seize power.

Also, the concept of "dawn" was very interestingly depicted in such a way that without any particular change in the narrative, we suddenly became aware of the passage of several years.