The novel ‘Kairos’ by Jenny Erpenbeck wins the International Booker Prize 2024 for its portrayal of a destructive affair in 1980s East Berlin. The judges awarded the £50,000 prize equally to author Erpenbeck and translator Michael Hofmann.
Set against the backdrop of a crumbling East Germany, the story delves into themes of power, love, and loyalty. Erpenbeck’s writing captures the complexities of a relationship between a young student and an older man, reflecting on personal and political dynamics.
The intimate exploration of hope and disappointment in ‘Kairos’ has earned Erpenbeck recognition as the first German writer to win the prestigious award. Translator Hofmann’s eloquent translation further enhances the novel’s appeal, making it a must-read for literature enthusiasts.
Congratulations to Erpenbeck and Hofmann on their remarkable achievement, reaffirming the power of storytelling in illuminating the nuances of human experience.