W.: A Novel

This novel intricately weaves a tale of love, jealousy, and tragic consequences, serving as a prequel to the iconic play Woyzeck.

In W.: A Novel, the story unfolds as a reimagining of Georg Büchner’s classic play, Woyzeck. This internationally acclaimed work delves into themes of jealousy, love, and the devastating consequences of murder. It explores the tragic tale of a soldier whose emotions spiral from love to hatred, leading to a fateful act that alters lives forever. The narrative is a gripping recount of the lovers’ tumultuous relationship, the ensuing murder case, and the soldier's execution, all while illuminating the motivations and complexities of the characters involved.

Steve Sem-Sandberg, an August Prize-winning author, crafts this literary prequel with poetic and controlled prose, taking readers deep into the heart of human vulnerability. The novel captures the essence of the original play while expanding on the larger forces at play—such as the horrors of war and the dehumanizing aspects of psychiatry—that collide with the intimate world of the soldier. As love devolves into hatred, the protagonist, Woyzeck, struggles to find meaning in his existence, reflecting the abyss that Büchner believed resided within every individual.

W.: A Novel is not just a retelling; it is an exploration of the human condition, revealing the fragile line between love and hate. Sem-Sandberg’s work invites readers to reflect on the complexities of emotion and the societal forces that shape our lives, making it a poignant addition to the canon of modern literature.