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Collected Works

Lydia Sandgren

857 Pages
2023

Collected Works

A Novel: 'A wry bestseller that reads like the effortlessly chic European cousin of Fleishman is in Trouble' (Telegraph)

Pushkin Press

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Collected Works - Summary

"Collected Works" by Lydia Sandgren is a captivating novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and the passage of time. The story centers around Martin Berg, a man grappling with a midlife crisis. Once an aspiring writer, Martin's life has taken unexpected turns. His girlfriend, Cecilia Wickner, a brilliant and enigmatic woman, has disappeared, leaving him to raise their children alone. His best friend, Gustav Becker, a rebellious artist, has also distanced himself. As Martin's daughter, Rakel, uncovers clues about her mother's disappearance, she embarks on a quest to piece together their family's fragmented history.

Key Themes

1

The Complexity of Human Relationships

"Collected Works" delves into the intricate dynamics between friends, lovers, and family members. The novel portrays how relationships evolve over time, influenced by personal ambitions, secrets, and the inevitable changes that life brings. This theme resonates with readers as it mirrors the complexities of their own relationships.

2

The Search for Identity

The characters in "Collected Works" are on a quest to understand themselves and their place in the world. Martin's struggle with his unfulfilled dreams, Cecilia's enigmatic personality, and Rakel's journey to uncover her mother's past all highlight the universal quest for self-discovery. This theme adds depth to the narrative, making it relatable and thought-provoking.

3

The Impact of the Past on the Present

The novel emphasizes how past events and decisions shape the present. Martin's unfinished manuscript, Cecilia's disappearance, and Gustav's estrangement all have lasting effects on the characters' lives. This theme underscores the importance of confronting and understanding one's past to move forward, offering readers a poignant reflection on their own lives.

FAQ's

"Collected Works" follows Martin Berg, a man dealing with a midlife crisis, as he navigates the complexities of his relationships and the disappearance of his girlfriend, Cecilia Wickner. His daughter, Rakel, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about her mother's past, adding layers to the narrative.

The central characters include Martin Berg, an aspiring writer facing a midlife crisis; Cecilia Wickner, his enigmatic girlfriend who has disappeared; Rakel, their daughter who seeks to uncover her mother's past; and Gustav Becker, Martin's rebellious artist friend who has distanced himself.

"Collected Works" explores themes such as the complexity of human relationships, the search for identity, and the impact of the past on the present. These themes are woven into the characters' lives, making the novel a profound exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery.

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