Mihály and Erzsi are on their honeymoon in Italy when Mihály, a businessman recently integrated into his family's respectable Budapest firm, finds his gaze drawn to the mysterious back-alleys of Venice. This reawakens memories of his bohemian past and a deep-seated desire to wander. When the couple is separated at a provincial train station, Mihály embarks on a chaotic and bizarre journey that ultimately leads him to Rome, where he must confront both his past and his future. Antal Szerb's intoxicating and satirical masterpiece delves into the conflicting desires within marriage and explores how the echoes of youth can endlessly reverberate through adulthood.

Why You Should Read?

• Experience a turbulent and dreamlike narrative that explores the tension between societal expectations and personal freedom.
• Delve into a satirical masterpiece that offers profound insights into the complexities of marriage and the lingering influence of youth.
• Discover an early-twentieth-century classic praised for its unique storytelling and enduring appeal.
• Follow a compelling protagonist on a bizarre and transformative journey of self-discovery.

About the Author

Antal Szerb (1901–1945) was a Hungarian scholar, writer, and literary historian. He is considered one of the most significant Hungarian literary figures of the 20th century, known for his erudition, wit, and unique blend of realism and fantasy. His works often explore themes of identity, memory, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Among his other notable works are The Pendragon Legend and The Third Tower. Szerb's life was tragically cut short during the Holocaust.