The Greatest Russian, German "Existentialist" Books Since 1980

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Existentialist

Existentialist literature is a genre that explores the meaning and purpose of human existence, often through the lens of individual experience and subjective perception. These books often delve into themes of freedom, choice, and responsibility, and may challenge traditional notions of morality and societal norms. Existentialist literature can be introspective and philosophical, and may offer readers a unique perspective on the human condition and the search for meaning in a complex and often chaotic world.

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  1. 1. The Clay Machine-gun by Victor Pelevin

    "The Clay Machine-gun" is a surreal and complex novel that explores the nature of reality and illusion. The story is set in post-Soviet Russia and follows a protagonist who has multiple identities, including a poet in 19th-century Russia, a 20th-century psychiatric patient, and a 21st-century advertising executive. The narrative moves between these identities and realities, blurring the lines between them and creating a layered and philosophical exploration of Russian society, identity, and the human psyche.

    The 2266th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Arcades Project by Walter Benjamin

    "The Arcades Project" is a comprehensive and intricate examination of 19th-century Parisian life, focusing on the iron-and-glass shopping arcades that emerged as early forms of the shopping mall. Compiled from a vast array of notes and writings, the work delves into the city's architectural and urban transformations, exploring how these spaces influenced aspects of culture, politics, and everyday life. Through a montage of quotations, reflections, and critical commentary, the book presents a fragmented yet profound analysis of modernity, capturing the intersection of history, philosophy, and social theory.

    The 5218th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download