From the Publisher
This book illuminates the work of one of Norway's dominant post-war literary figures. Jens Bjørneb e is seen as a consciously European writer, and the book traces the influence and congruence in his works with other European writers and thinkers of international stature: Kafka, Strindberg, Brecht, Sartre, Camus, and Conrad. This book also traces Bjørneb e's trajectory as a former painter with highly esthetic concerns, to his most lasting literary works, which balance an existential and mystic view with social engagement. From the young poet in the thrall of Rilkean poetics, the discussion moves through his History of Bestiality novel trilogy and his last works an assault on Western culture from a peculiarly European perspective.
For those as yet unfamiliar with the extraordinary writings, novels, plays, essays, and poetry of Jens Bjørneb e, J e Martin's Keeper of the Protocols will come as an eye-opener. To those who know Bjørneb e already, their understanding will be enriched by this sophisticated yet beautifully accessible book. John Fuegi, Author of Brecht & Co.
J e Martin's comprehensive study of the work of Jens Bjørneb e makes a convincing case for Bjørneb e's place among that small company of twentieth-century authors who have dealt in fundamental, searching, and innovative ways, with the most profound moral and ethical questions of this troubled century. Professor Marvin Carlson, Graduate Center, City University of New York
