Scenes of Kids from Wuppertal
Hanns-Josef Ortheil, a Stuttgart resident for over four decades, is set to present his latest novel, "Suspension Trains," at Literaturhaus Stuttgart on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Ortheil, who shares the same first name with the book's protagonist, has penned over seventy books, including novels, essays, literary reports, and journeys through his own life story.
The novel is set in the 1950s and follows the story of Josef, an introverted young man who finds solace in activities like playing the piano, studying train timetables, and cataloging books. A victim of bullying and isolation, Josef is an outcast in Cologne, often referred to as an "idiot" by his peers.
Josef's life takes a turn when his family moves to Wuppertal due to his perceived academic struggles in Cologne. In Wuppertal, he finds a companion in a neighbour girl who, like him, has a loss to mourn. They create a shared hideout in the woods to protect themselves from the world.
Josef's absolute hearing allows him to transform experiences into sound and rhythm. This unique ability is particularly evident in the cable car in the book, which moves in a three-quarter rhythm. Through his music, Josef attempts to make sense of the chaos and danger he experiences, animating the brutal silence of the post-war world.
The book does not delve into the reasons behind Josef's deviation from the "normal." Instead, it focuses on his journey towards acceptance and his attempts to become a more normal person, with his many exceptional talents becoming bearable under the pressure of suffering.
The naive narrative tone of the book arises from the protagonist's perspective, reflecting the chaos and danger he experiences. However, it may be criticized for its seemingly naive tone, but it is intended for adult readers who can appreciate the protagonist's journey.
Ortheil's writing is a lifelong attempt to make sense of things and to escape the darkness. His work, including "Suspension Trains," is a testament to his resilience and his ability to find beauty and meaning in the most difficult of circumstances.
Before becoming a renowned author, Ortheil initially pursued a career as a pianist but had to abandon it due to health problems. His experiences as a musician have undoubtedly influenced his writing, as he uses music as a metaphor for life's ups and downs.
The book's secret worldliness is an attempt to make sense after the experience of elemental tremor. It is a poignant exploration of the human spirit's capacity to endure and find solace in the most unexpected of places.
In "Suspension Trains," Ortheil has created a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the last page. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition and the power of music to heal and transform.
