Dezső Kosztolányi

Dezső Kosztolányi was a Hungarian writer, poet, journalist, and translator. He is considered one of the most significant literary figures in Hungarian literature, known for his novels, short stories, and poems that often explore themes of human existence, identity, and the passage of time.

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.

  1. 1. Édes Anna

    Történet a régi Budapestről

    "Édes Anna" is a novel that revolves around the life of a young servant girl, Anna, who works for a bourgeois family in early 20th century Hungary. The narrative explores Anna's experiences of exploitation, abuse, and societal oppression. As she navigates her way through life, her innocence and naivety are gradually eroded, leading her to commit an act of violent rebellion. The book is a potent critique of class and gender inequalities of the time.

    The 1439th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 2. Kornél Esti

    A collection of interconnected stories, this book follows the whimsical and often absurd adventures of a mischievous and enigmatic character who embodies the duality of human nature. Through a series of vignettes, the narrative explores themes of identity, freedom, and the complexities of life, all while maintaining a playful and satirical tone. The protagonist's escapades, ranging from humorous to poignant, serve as a reflection on the human condition, offering insights into the contradictions and unpredictability of existence.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  3. 3. Cotovia

    Set in a small Hungarian town at the turn of the 20th century, the story follows the Vajkay family during a week when their daughter, a plain and unmarried woman, goes on a vacation. Her absence forces her parents to confront the emptiness and routine of their lives, revealing the deep-seated loneliness and unspoken tensions within their seemingly mundane existence. As they navigate social gatherings and personal reflections, the narrative delves into themes of isolation, societal expectations, and the passage of time, painting a poignant portrait of familial bonds and the quiet despair of unfulfilled lives.