Bookworm

W. G. Sebald

5 snips
Dec 6, 2001
W. G. Sebald, a renowned German writer celebrated for his unique prose and exploration of memory, delves into the poetic qualities of his literary style inspired by 19th-century authors. He discusses the significance of literary influences like Keller and Heine, using complex sentence structures to convey historical trauma. The conversation also highlights the intersection of literature and natural science, alongside the metaphor of fog in post-war narratives. Ultimately, Sebald reveals how beauty and horror intertwine, enhancing the understanding of profound suffering.
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INSIGHT

Prose Influences

  • W.G. Sebald's prose style is influenced by 19th-century German prose, not poetry.
  • These writers, like Stifter and Keller, prioritized prose rhythm and intensity over plot.
INSIGHT

Specific Influences

  • Sebald's influences include Austrian writer Adalbert Stifter and Swiss writer Gottfried Keller.
  • They wrote with intensity, prioritizing carefully composed prose over plot mechanics.
INSIGHT

Sentence Structure

  • Sebald's unique sentence structure, abandoned by most modern writers, evokes a sense of gravity and playfulness.
  • These forms exist in 18th and 19th-century prose and have fallen into disrepair.
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