Hermann Hesse's Nachbarn: Erzahlungen is a poignant collection of short stories written in the early 20th century, exploring the intricacies of human relationships and emotions set against the backdrop of societal shifts. In the opening story, we are introduced to Andreas Ohngelt, a quiet and introspective man, grappling with his sense of self and his place within the world. Ohngelt runs a small white goods shop in a quaint, unchanging neighborhood, which mirrors the stasis he feels in his personal life.
Throughout his youth, Andreas experiences unreciprocated love for several women, which compounds his growing sense of inadequacy. Now nearing thirty, he is burdened by societal expectations of success in both his professional and personal life, particularly in terms of romance. Despite making earnest efforts to enhance his appearance and develop a more charismatic persona, his persistent self-doubt continues to overshadow his hopes.
At his mother’s urging, Andreas reluctantly joins a local choral group, a decision that thrusts him into a new social environment. This shift marks a turning point, as he begins to navigate the often-comedic yet bittersweet complexities of human interaction. His journey is not just about finding love but understanding the tension between his internal desires and the external demands of an ever-evolving world. The story artfully balances the comedic and tragic elements of life, illustrating Ohngelt's struggles with longing, acceptance, and the quiet battles fought within the human soul.

Die Verlobung
Karl Eugen Eiselein
Garibaldi
Walter Kompff
In der alten Sonne