Fitzcarraldo at 10: Kate Briggs, Brian Dillon & Helen Charman

"Roland Barthes by Roland Barthes" is an autobiographical work in which the author explores his own life, ideas, and experiences through a fragmented and non-linear narrative. The book blends personal reflections with theoretical insights, offering a unique perspective on identity and representation. Barthes challenges traditional autobiographical conventions. The book consists of a series of short essays and reflections, creating a mosaic-like self-portrait. It is a complex and introspective work that provides deep insights into Barthes' intellectual and personal world.

"This Little Art" explores the intricacies and nuances of literary translation. It delves into the relational aspects of translation and transformation. The book reflects on personal experiences, inviting readers to explore the complexities of working between languages. It is a thoughtful meditation on the practice, combining theoretical insight with personal narrative. Through engaging prose, it examines what translation can do in the world, positioning it as a practice of amateurishness and ongoing exploration, rather than expertise. "

The Magic Mountain is a novel by Thomas Mann, published in 1924. It follows the story of Hans Castorp, a young man from a Hamburg merchant family, who visits his tubercular cousin Joachim at a sanatorium in Davos, Switzerland. Initially planning to stay for three weeks, Castorp ends up staying for seven years, immersing himself in the unique world of the sanatorium. The novel delves into themes of time, illness, and the intellectual and philosophical debates of the pre-World War I era. It is a parable of Europe before the Great War and a prophecy of the future, highlighting the decline of European civilization and the rise of irrational and destructive forces. The narrative is characterized by Mann's ironic and omniscient storytelling, exploring the human condition through Castorp's experiences and the diverse characters he encounters at the sanatorium[2][3][4].

"Essayism" explores the essay form through a blend of personal narrative and critical analysis. Dillon reflects on his reading experiences and the nature of style in essays, revealing a tension between admiration for finished, polished prose and a desire for art that collapses under its own weight. The book delves into themes of attention, admiration, and the complexities of artistic expression. Dillon combines memoir-like fragments with observations on the essay, style, and influence.