From The Diary Of A Snail

Gunter Grass

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Probably the most autobiographical of his novels, From the Diary of a Snail balances the agonising history of the persecuted Danzig Jews with an account of Grass's political campaigning with Willie Brandt. Underlying all is the snail, the central symbol that is both model and a parody of social progress, and a mysterious metaphor for political reform.

From the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature and author of The Tin Drum.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Personal Reflections: The book offers a deeply introspective look into the mind of the protagonist, whose diary entries serve as a means of self-exploration and reflection.

  2. Historical Context: Grass intertwines personal narratives with broader historical events, providing readers with a unique perspective on post-war Germany and the socio-political landscape of the time.

  3. Social Commentary: Through the protagonist's observations and experiences, Grass provides incisive commentary on various social issues, including bureaucracy, conformity, and the legacy of war.

  4. Symbolism of the Snail: The snail serves as a central metaphor in the novel, representing themes of slowness, resilience, and the gradual process of self-discovery.

  5. Literary Experimentation: Grass employs unconventional narrative techniques, including the integration of newspaper clippings, sketches, and letters, to create a multi-layered and immersive reading experience.

  6. Critique of Modern Society: The protagonist's interactions with individuals from different walks of life offer a critique of contemporary society, highlighting its shortcomings and contradictions.

  7. Exploration of Memory and Identity: Grass delves into the complexities of memory and identity, exploring how personal and collective histories shape individual consciousness and sense of self.

  8. Environmental Themes: The protagonist's fascination with nature, particularly snails, underscores broader themes of environmentalism and humanity's relationship with the natural world.

  9. Humor and Irony: Despite its serious themes, the novel is infused with humor and irony, providing moments of levity amidst the weighty subject matter.

  10. Legacy of Günter Grass: "From the Diary of a Snail" reflects the literary legacy of Günter Grass, showcasing his mastery of storytelling and his ability to provoke thought and debate through his writing.

Language English
ISBN-13 9780749394554
No of pages 320
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher vintage
Published Date 27 Jan 1997

About Author

Author : Gunter Grass

4 Books

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