Description
By: Adalbert Stifter (1805-1868)
Rock Crystal by Adalbert Stifter is a captivating and beautifully written novel that follows two children, Sanna and her brother Conrad, as they embark on a treacherous journey through a snowstorm to visit their grandparents on Christmas Eve. The story is filled with vivid descriptions of the snowy landscape, creating a magical and atmospheric setting that draws the reader in from the very beginning.
Stifter’s prose is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the harsh beauty of the winter landscape and the sense of wonder and adventure that comes with the children’s journey. The relationship between Sanna and Conrad is heartwarming and touching, as they rely on each other for support and navigate the challenges of their journey together.
One of the most striking aspects of the novel is Stifter’s ability to convey the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life through his descriptions of the changing seasons and the characters’ experiences. This adds depth and richness to the story, highlighting the importance of family, tradition, and the power of nature.
Overall, Rock Crystal is a timeless and enchanting tale that will appeal to readers of all ages. Stifter’s lyrical prose, rich imagery, and poignant themes make this a truly unforgettable and immersive reading experience.
Book Description:
On Christmas Eve, two children, a brother and sister, leave their grandmother’s house in an Alpine village and get lost in the mountain snow. They become trapped among the rock crystals of the frozen glacier. This short and gripping novel, by 19th century Austrian master Adalbert Stifter, influenced Thomas Mann and others with its suspenseful, simple, myth-like story and majestic depictions of nature. Poet W.H. Auden called the work “a quiet and beautiful parable about the relation of people to places, of man to nature.”(Introduction by Greg W.)
