Title: Eumeswil
Writer: Ernst Jünger
Year of publication: 1977
Review: Few men have lived more political history, their thought and writing being molded by it, than Ernst Jünger. From a Great War veteran that wrote in his first books about the glory and joy of dying for the German fatherland, to the Anarch. The Anarch, who understands the need for duty, society and authority, yet is within himself free of these burdens. A man who has found the ultimate detachment from a world that can, in aggregate, give him nothing more than existence itself. To this effect, in Eumeswil, Jünger explores a desolate future in which nations have collapsed, returning civilization to a city-state system with warlord leaders akin to those of medieval times. Part essay, part fiction novel, Eumeswil tells the story of a man living in service to one of these despots as both historian and barman, observing a petty and belittled version of history unfold before his eyes. His becoming of the elusive Anarch, the struggles within and, ultimately, the devastating effects of war amongst brothers are Jünger´s contribution to a world in turmoil. Reader beware that Jünger’s work is not for the faint of heart, or for those looking to find quick answers. Reading Jünger requires an openness of mind and a skepticism of spirit that demands undivided attention. Profound and engrossing, Rostra’s choice.
It is to be underlined that Rostra was not incentivised to promote this book in any way, and this suggestion is not necessarily representative of the opinions of the Rostra team, but only of the editor of this article.
