Kasimir Edschmid was a leading voice of German Expressionism, a movement that cared more about intense feelings and inner truth than photographic realism. Die sechs Mündungen is a collection of six short novels (novellas) that put this philosophy into action.

The Story

There isn't a single plot, but six separate worlds. Each story throws you into a high-stakes situation. You might meet an artist consumed by a vision that blurs the line between genius and madness. In another, you could witness a sudden, violent clash in a tense social setting that explodes without warning. The characters aren't always 'likable' in a traditional sense, but they are fiercely alive, driven by passion, fear, or a desperate need to break free from ordinary life.

Why You Should Read It

I picked this up out of curiosity about a literary movement I didn't know much about, and I was completely pulled in. The writing is electric. Edschmid doesn't just describe a room; he makes you feel its oppressive heat or its dizzying emptiness. These stories are short, but they pack a punch. They're about those moments when emotion overwhelms logic, and reality gets a little warped. It's less about 'what happens next' and more about 'what is this person feeling right now?'

Final Verdict

This is a book for the adventurous reader. It's perfect if you love early 20th-century literature, want to explore the roots of modern psychological fiction, or just enjoy stories that are stylistically bold. If you prefer straightforward, plot-driven narratives, this might feel challenging. But if you're willing to let the prose wash over you and experience the world through a distorted, intensely emotional lens, Die sechs Mündungen is a fascinating and unforgettable trip.