Banned by the Nazis, this haunting novel by a gay German writer in the 1930s is arare early work of magic realism
A haunting tale of love and loss in pre-war Germany, where dreams and reality intertwine.
Friedo Lampe's At the Edge of the Night evokes a sultry September evening in Bremen, capturing its charm, tenderness, squalor, and lust. Through a stream of interconnected images, the novel introduces a cast of characters--children, old and young, townsfolk, performers, students, and seamen--whose lives intersect against the backdrop of a city on the brink of change. As the Nazi regime tightens its grip, their stories reveal the raw reality of a society grappling with censorship, social injustice, and the looming threat of war.
Banned by the Nazis for its homoerotic themes and depiction of interracial relationships, this rediscovered classic offers a poignant glimpse into a world where dreams and reality blur. Translated by Simon Beattie, this edition brings Lampe's unique voice to a new generation of readers. Perfect for those who enjoy historical fiction, German literature, and stories that explore the complexities of human experience.