Georges Rodenbach - Bruges-la-Morte

[giantsilkmoth]

This book truly is perhaps the most archetypal possible example of fin de siecle literature, for both better and worse. On one hand it's unique, evocative, and textured. On the other it's dull, melodramatic to a near-comical level, and deeply misogynist. Ultimately, while I'm glad I read this as someone interested in this era of literature, I don't think it's nearly as gripping as, for instance, Marcel Schwob or Rachilde. Most dammingly, perhaps, is that while this book makes a big deal of Bruges as the central character, it doesn't feel like it does much interesting with that. Like yes, the city is grey and mirrors Hugues' despair. And that's kind as far as it goes, described in different ways, forever. Interesting for folks who care about this literary scene, but there are more interesting books from it.