In this hauntingly beautiful collection of poetry and songs, Klabund captures the essence of Japanese culture through the story of O Sen, a young geisha. The lyrical verses and rich imagery transport readers to a bygone era of elegance and refinement.
The novel features a young man's harrowing experience in Berlin after suffering a hemorrhage, leading to encounters with bizarre figures and delusions. Written during a period of illness, it blends autobiographical elements with themes of madness and decay, showcasing both Decadent and Expressionist influences. The narrative, influenced by morphine, presents a haunting exploration of the psyche, making it a striking and poetic reflection on the nature of suffering and reality. This marks its debut in English, translated by Jonah Lubin.