Thomas Strässle's 'Storia di una fuga' Reviewed: Love in the GDR

In a review published on doppiozero, Roberto Gilodi examines Thomas Strässle's novel 'Storia di una fuga' (Story of a Flight), which is set in the German Democratic Republic (GDR). The review draws a parallel between Goethe's critique of Alessandro Manzoni's distinction between historical and imaginary characters in 'Il Conte di Carmagnola' and Strässle's meticulous documentation of sources at the end of his novel. Gilodi notes that Goethe considered such distinctions superfluous and even harmful, arguing that a literary work should transcend historical contingency to embody ideal values. The review highlights Strässle's documentary scrupulousness, exactness of detail, and precision in narrative construction, which are evident throughout the novel. The title 'L'amore ai tempi della DDR' (Love in the Times of the GDR) suggests a focus on personal relationships against the backdrop of the socialist state. The review was published on August 31, 2026, and is part of doppiozero's cultural commentary.