Lucky Per

This novel follows a young man's journey from rural Jutland to Copenhagen, exploring themes of ambition, love, and the nature of luck in Lucky Per.

In Lucky Per, the story unfolds as a blend of social realism and fairy tale, centered around the ambitious son of a clergyman. This bildungsroman follows Per, who ultimately rejects his faith and escapes the confines of rural Jutland, seeking a new life in the vibrant capital of Denmark, Copenhagen. Per is a gifted young man with a singular belief: that luck is something to be hunted down and captured like a wild beast. This conviction drives him into the heart of the city's Jewish community, where he becomes enamored with Jakobe Salomon, a wealthy heiress who stands out as one of the strongest characters in the narrative and a notable figure in European literature.

As Per immerses himself in the world of engineering, he becomes obsessed with a grand scheme that he believes will redefine Denmark's landscape and elevate its status on the global stage. However, as the story progresses, both his personal aspirations and career ambitions face significant challenges, leading to profound reflections on his journey. At the core of Lucky Per is a poignant exploration of the interplay between 'luck' and 'happiness,' concepts that Per grapples with throughout his life, ultimately coming to a new understanding by its conclusion.

Originally published in 1904, this sweeping novel has been regarded as a Modernist masterpiece and is often considered 'the great Danish novel.' With its recent availability in English, Lucky Per invites new readers to experience its rich narrative and complex themes.