Note that this Vintage edition is NOT the modernJohn E Wood translation referenced in the ‘Media reviews’ section above, but the 1940s H. T. Lowe-Porter translation. I was disappointed to discover this, having enjoyed Wood’s translation of The Magic Mountain much more than older translations of Mann. However, Lowe-Porter’s mannered style does work well here, given the nature of the narrative.

I may be a big reader. And a big fan of classic literature. Tolstoy, Dostoyevsky, Hardy and even Dickens provide enjoyable readings for me. I might say I even adored the "Buddenbrooks" by the same author. But this novel was an epic read for me for multiple and various reasons. First of all, because I started this book with a preparation period of mental and psychological value. Mostly, due to the fact that this a valuable writing of epic proportions for the literary world. Secondly, because I got exhausted after working my way through a third of its' content. Trying to discern all its' intricacies and metaphors, perusing the descriptions with attention and calm, studying the characters from various angles. Accommodating to their particularities, accepting their oddities, discerning their values and their faults. But all was in vain, since fatigue and monotony perpetrated the scene of the narrative line. The words didn't seem to connect with my mind. The ideas hid under corners, leaving me confused and baffled with the author's intentions. As the pages moved on, a certain mist of unclarity and bizarre penetrated the novel. And thirdly, this is my sole book that I have left unfinished from top to bottom, word to word. The novel has its' importance and value, but it was lost for me despite all the efforts and good will I poured into it...It may be a writing that needs an academic translation for the secular reader!