The Melancholy of Resistance
The Melancholy of Resistance
Book Brief
Beta314
Novel • Fiction
Hungary • Contemporary
2002
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Melancholy of Resistance by László Krasznahorkai explores the surreal experiences of a small town disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious circus and a giant whale. The narrative follows various residents as they grapple with chaos, fear, and change, ultimately reflecting on human resilience and the struggle for order amidst disorder.
Mysterious
Dark
Melancholic
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
5,313 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
The Melancholy of Resistance by László Krasznahorkai is lauded for its dense, allegorical prose and exploration of chaos and order in society. Critics praise its philosophical depth and unique narrative style, though some may find its long, complex sentences challenging. The novel's enigmatic atmosphere leaves a lasting impact, engaging readers in a profound contemplation of human existence.
Who Should Read The Melancholy of Resistance?
A reader who would enjoy The Melancholy of Resistance by László Krasznahorkai appreciates intricate narratives with existential and philosophical depth. Fans of Kafka’s absurdism in The Trial or the bleak atmospheres of Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov would find its dark, immersive storytelling captivating.
5,313 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Melancholy of Resistance# was first published in its original Hungarian in 1989, and its distinct narrative style has earned it comparisons to authors like Franz Kafka and Thomas Bernhard.
The book was adapted into a film titled Werckmeister Harmonies in 2000, directed by Béla Tarr, which has since achieved cult status among fans of art house cinema.
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The English translation of The Melancholy of Resistance by George Szirtes won the prestigious Best Translated Book Award in 2005, bringing broader international recognition to Krasznahorkai's work.
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314
Novel • Fiction
Hungary • Contemporary
2002
Adult
18+ years
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