The Life of a Good-for-nothing (Hesperus Classics) - Softcover

Joseph Freiherr Von Eichendorff; J.G. Nichols (translator)

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1843910047 ISBN 13: 9781843910046

Publisher: Hesperus Press Ltd, 2002

Synopsis

'The Life of a Good-for-nothing' is a delightful picaresque tale and a classic of German literature. Despaired of by his father and impatient with his lot, a young man hears the enticing call of life on the road. Leaving his home and all that he knows, he embarks upon a journey in search of adventures and glory. One day enjoying fortune and plenty, the next at the mercy of villains and rogues, his life becomes one full of chance and wonder.

About this title

Review:

'Unflappable Epicureanism suffuses this 1826 novella by a German Romantic writer (1788-1857) best known for his lyrical lieder. Von Eichendorff's unnamed, highly engaging layabout (and narrator) is dismissed by his hardworking father, employed as a (particularly inept) assistant gardener at a Viennese estate whose beauteous daughter thereafter fills his dreams; then he's subjected to miscellaneous adventures and perils in Italy and Austria (including encounters with Leonardo da Vinci and an abusive parrot), before a coincidence-driven finale rewards him with far more happiness than he has earned. A delightful tale, featuring a Candide who wouldn't think of exerting himself to cultivate his garden, preferring instead to sit back and smell the flowers.' --Kirkus Review

From the Publisher:

New Translation of this wonderful piece of German literature

About this edition

• Publisher: Hesperus Press Ltd
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 1843910047
• ISBN 13: 9781843910046
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 120