Goodbye to Berlín By Christopher Isherwood

Adiós a Berlín (Goodbye to Berlin) is a poignant semi-autobiographical novel by Christopher Isherwood, originally published in 1939. This modern classic provides a vivid snapshot of Berlin during the waning days of the Weimar Republic, a time of social and political turbulence that foreshadows the rise of the Nazi regime. Narrated by a detached and observant writer, often seen as a stand-in for Isherwood himself, the novel unfolds through a series of interconnected stories, each depicting diverse characters struggling to navigate life in a rapidly changing city.

The book introduces memorable figures such as Sally Bowles, a free-spirited English cabaret singer, and the Landauer family, Jewish shop owners facing the growing threat of anti-Semitism. Isherwood captures the decadence, fragility, and underlying despair of Berlin’s vibrant culture, blending sharp social commentary with deeply human moments.

Why Read This Book?

• Provides an intimate and atmospheric portrayal of Berlin on the brink of historical catastrophe.
• Features richly drawn characters, including Sally Bowles, who later inspired the musical Cabaret.
• Explores timeless themes of identity, belonging, and societal change.
• A masterful example of modernist literature, blending fiction with autobiographical insights.

About the Author

Christopher Isherwood (1904–1986) was a celebrated British-American author known for his candid storytelling and sharp observations of human behavior. Much of his work is drawn from his own experiences, particularly his time in Berlin during the early 1930s. Isherwood’s Berlin stories, including Adiós a Berlín, captured the city’s atmosphere with an immediacy that continues to resonate. His openly queer identity and exploration of LGBTQ+ themes in his writing broke significant ground in 20th-century literature. Later in life, Isherwood became an influential figure in California's literary scene and embraced Vedanta philosophy, which deeply influenced his worldview.