In Paradise: A Novel. Vol. II

by Paul Heyse

"In Paradise: A Novel. Vol. II" by Paul Heyse is a literary novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds primarily around a character named Edward Rossel, a wealthy man who owns a country villa near Starnberg. His mundane attitudes toward nature contrast with his artistic guest, Philip Emanuel Kohle, suggesting a rich exploration of themes related to art, beauty, and human experience. The opening of the novel introduces the idyllic setting of Rossel's villa and his disdain for countryside life, emphasizing his preference for urban comforts. As Rossel entertains Kohle, a budding artist, their contrasting perspectives lead to philosophical discussions about art, life, and the nature of emotions. The narrative hints at Kohle's aspirations and peculiarities as he engages with Rossel and other characters, creating a rich interplay of ideas and emotions that sets the tone for the following chapters, with underlying currents of longing, frustration, and the complexities of relationships.