István Örkény
István Örkény was a Hungarian writer, playwright, and novelist, best known for his short stories and his unique style of absurdism and humor. Born on April 5, 1912, in Budapest, he is particularly famous for his 'One Minute Stories' (Egyperces novellák), which are characterized by their concise, ironic, and often grotesque narratives. Örkény's work often reflects on the human condition and the absurdities of life, especially under the constraints of authoritarian regimes. He passed away on June 24, 1979, in Budapest, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hungary's most celebrated 20th-century authors.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Tóték
"Tóték" is a satirical novella set during World War II in a Hungarian village occupied by Soviet troops. The story revolves around the Tót family, who are forced to accommodate a Russian artillery captain in their home. As the family goes to absurd lengths to please their unwanted guest, the novella humorously and critically explores themes of power, oppression, and the absurdity of war. The interactions between the Hungarian family and the Russian officer highlight the cultural misunderstandings and the tragicomic aspects of life under military occupation, offering a poignant reflection on the human condition during times of conflict.
The 4408th Greatest Book of All Time