Quicksands

by Adolf Streckfuss

"Quicksands" by Adolf Streckfuss is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character Egon von Ernau, a young man in deep despair, contemplating suicide as he grapples with the monotony and meaninglessness of his life. His suicidal thoughts are interrupted when he encounters another man, Gottlieb Pigglewitch, who has just attempted to take his own life as well, setting off a chain of events that challenges both characters' perspectives on life and death. At the start of the novel, we meet Egon von Ernau, who is lying in a forest, feeling tormented by the brightness and cheerful nature surrounding him. As he prepares to end his life with a revolver, he is drawn by the sound of singing and soon discovers Pigglewitch, a miserable man who has just jumped into a lake in a failed attempt to drown himself. Instead of letting Pigglewitch die, Egon saves him, leading to a conversation where they share their woes. This interaction leads Egon to reconsider the value of life, while Pigglewitch opens up about his misfortunes, revealing his struggles with gambling and love. The rich exchanges between the two characters set the stage for their further development and exploration of existential themes.