International Booker Prize bestows accolades on Erpenbeck and Hofmann.
In her novel "Kairos," German author Erpenbeck delves into the downfall of a relationship during the GDR's final years. Notably, this caught the eye of the International Booker Prize jury, who bestowed her with the esteemed honor. Alongside her, translator Michael Hofmann was also recognized for his work in converting the piece into English. The duo split the 50,000-pound (approximately 58,500 euros) prize sum. This marked Hofmann as the first male recipient of the accolade, which has been around since 2016.
Jenny Erpenbeck, a writer and opera director, became the first German to claim the International Booker Prize during a ceremony at London's Tate Modern museum. The novel "Kairos" serves as the centerpiece of her victory, but Hofmann's translation of it into English played a crucial role as well.
"Kairos" narrates the story of a young student and an older, married writer's passionate romantic entanglement in later years of the GDR. While their love for music and art supported the relationship, it ultimately shattered along with the political turmoil surrounding them. Erpenbeck's fascination with the political liberation symbolized by the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 led her to explore more than just that moment. She wanted to shed light on the events preceding and following this turning point.
What sets the novel apart is its ability to balance beauty with discomfort, personal connections with political commentary. These factors attracted the attention of the prize jury, who stated in their release that it "momentous stories about the fragility of emotional life in a world of political, social, and historical change."
The International Booker Prize boasts a history of recognizing exceptional foreign-language works translated into English. Georgi Gospodinov, a Bulgarian writer, received the award priorly for his work "Zeitzuflucht."
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The recognition for Erpenbeck and Hofmann extends beyond the realm of politics, as "Kairos" also remarkably showcases the intersection of entertainment and literature. The novel's poignant portrayal of love and politics has earned praise from critics and audiences alike, proving that literature can serve as a captivating form of entertainment.
Furthermore, Erpenbeck's literary prowess has inspired numerous adaptations, turning her work into a popular source of enjoyment in various entertainment mediums such as films and stage plays.
Source: www.ntv.de
