The Hour That Breaks

This biography explores the life of German poet Gottfried Benn, detailing his personal and public experiences, including his medical career, military service, and complex relationship with politics, alongside fresh translations of his poetry.

The Hour That Breaks is the first English biography of the prominent German poet Gottfried Benn (1886–1956). This comprehensive work explores both the significant events in Benn's personal and public life and his evolution as a poet. The author provides in-depth analysis of many of Benn’s poems, some of which are translated into English for the first time, allowing readers to appreciate the nuances of his work.

The biography traces Benn's complex journey, detailing his experiences in medical practice and military service during two world wars. It also examines his brief political engagement with Hitler and Nazism in 1933, leading to his eventual resurgence in post-World War II Germany. Through these narratives, the author paints a vivid picture of a man navigating the tumultuous landscape of his time, revealing the intricacies of his character and the societal pressures he faced.

Additionally, the book delves into Benn's distinctive poetic style, marked by innovation and a blend of radical and conservative elements. The concept of a double life emerges as a recurring theme, highlighting Benn's strategies for survival amid the challenges he encountered. Ultimately, this biography not only sheds light on Benn's literary contributions but also provides a thoughtful reflection on the complexities of his existence, illustrating how he was both a master of his art and a victim of his circumstances.