Title: Growth of the Soil
Author: Knut Hamsun
First published January 1, 1917
435 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780394717814 (ISBN10: 0394717813)
Rating: 4.23
Overview
An extraordinary story of perseverance and endurance, Growth of the Soil portrays the life of Norwegian settlers during the early 1900s. With its compelling narrative, this sweeping saga evokes an intense emotional response in readers.
This book was a sensation when it was first published and won Knut Hamsun a Nobel Prize in Literature in 1920. Its rich symbolism still captivates the modern reader and provides a deep insight into the lives of those who worked the land in the past.
About the Author
Knut Hamsun, also known by his pen name Knut Pedersen, is a renowned Norwegian writer who has authored several novels. Some of his popular works include Hunger (1890) and The Growth of the Soil (1917).
In recognition of his literary prowess, he was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1920.
Hamsun had a unique perspective on modern literature, placing great emphasis on the complexities of the human mind. He believed that the “whisper of the blood, and the pleading of the bone marrow” were key elements in describing the human psyche.
Throughout his career, he stayed true to his literary vision and made his debut in 1890 with the psychological novel.
Editoral Review
“Growth of the Soil” by Knut Hamsun, first published in 1917, is a classic work of Norwegian literature that explores the themes of nature, survival, and human relationships. Hamsun, a Nobel Prize winner, is known for his unique writing style that blends realism and symbolism, which makes this novel a must-read for lovers of literary fiction.
The novel follows the life of Isak, a farmer who leaves his home village to start a new life in a remote valley. Isak’s journey is one of struggle and perseverance as he battles the harsh Norwegian landscape to establish a farm and raise a family.
Throughout the novel, Hamsun portrays Isak as a symbol of human resilience, showing how he adapts to his surroundings and changes as a person over time.
One of the strengths of “Growth of the Soil” is Hamsun’s ability to create vivid descriptions of the Norwegian wilderness. His writing is poetic and immersive, painting a picture of a world that is both beautiful and unforgiving.
Hamsun’s use of symbolism is also notable, with each character representing a particular aspect of human nature. For instance, Isak represents resilience, while his son, Eleseus, represents the desire for knowledge and education.
The novel’s pacing is slow, but this is deliberate, allowing the reader to experience the rhythm of rural life. The plot is character-driven, with the conflicts arising from the characters’ relationships rather than external factors.
The characters are well-developed, with Hamsun exploring their motivations and desires in great detail. However, some readers may find the novel too introspective, with little action or plot twists.
In terms of historical and cultural significance, “Growth of the Soil” is an important work of Norwegian literature that reflects the country’s rural heritage. The novel also explores universal themes that are still relevant today, such as the relationship between humans and nature, the struggle for survival, and the tension between tradition and progress.
Overall, “Growth of the Soil” is a beautifully written novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy literary fiction and are interested in exploring the human condition. The novel’s slow pace and introspective nature may not be for everyone, but those who appreciate Hamsun’s style will find much to admire here.
We highly recommend this novel to readers who are looking for a thought-provoking and immersive reading experience.
Rating: 4/5
