Reluctantly, László Krasznahorkai exchanges a few words in hesitant English, after being reached with the news that he is this year's Nobel Prize winner in literature. The Hungarian author is stunned, but already certain that he will come to Stockholm to receive the prize.
Of course, I am proud to be able to come, he answers quickly.
Krasznahorkai is known for his dystopian novels – and it can seem as if the turbulent present has caught up with him. But he emphasizes that he has always written about human existential conditions.
I have never been involved in party politics. I have wanted to give readers hope, even to those who have nothing. A hope to survive.
Hope and fear
In the latest novel, "Herscht 07769", where the idea of a united Europe cracks, his empathy with people is particularly clear.
Yes, I agree with that. It is full of hope but also fear for the future.
Melancholic and sarcastic humor characterizes the book, something that has always been important for Krasznahorkai.
Yes, in the toughest times what else can we do but laugh? There are other ways than just saying "everything is bad and I am depressed". What we do with life on earth and in our society is so ridiculous – that we do not manage to take care of and enjoy the life we have been given is so stupid.
Hopes they are proud
In the spring, Krasznahorkai caused a political storm when he spoke out about politics in Hungary and criticized Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's national conservative government. How the prize will now be received in his home country "he has no idea about".
But I hope that every Hungarian will feel proud.
