The Film Explainer by Gert Hofmann
Set in post-World War I Germany, the story follows Karl Hofmann, a film explainer who narrates silent movies to audiences in a small town. As the silent film era wanes and talkies emerge, Karl grapples with the impending obsolescence of his craft, while his son, the narrator, observes the changes in his father's life and the world around them. The novel explores themes of technological advancement, the passage of time, and the impact of change on personal identity and family dynamics. Through Karl's struggles, the narrative poignantly captures a moment of cultural transition and the bittersweet nature of progress.
The 10812th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1990
- Nationality
- German
- Length
- Short
- Pages
- 200-300
- Original Language
- German
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- Alternate Titles
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This book is on the following 2 lists:
- 100 German Must-Reads (Deutsche Welle)
- Independent Foreign Fiction Prize (Independent Foreign Fiction Prize)