Confessions of Felix Krull, Confidence Man: The Early Years

Why is Felix Krull so often passed over in consideration of the works of Thomas Mann? I would never have read it except that I just finished Colm Toibin's recent The Magician and had gotten interested in Mann all over again. One cannot and should not stop at Death In Venice and The Magic Mountain. This book is ac accessible in style as Buddenbrooks and a good deal funnier. Mann meant it to be the first volume of a longer work, but died too soon to go on, so some things in the novel'sdevelopment are left hanging. Too bad, as more would have been gloriously welcome.

Those who know Thomas Mann for his weightier books will be surprised to see how light this short novel is.Felix Krull is a "Con Man." This book recounts his early years, from early childhood, through his ingenious method of avoiding being drafted into the army, to his initial jobs. He avoids the army by appearing too eager to join, thus inducing suspicion regarding his mental stability. He works his way up by recognizing that having a good appearance and a willing attitude more than compensates for lack of experience or ability. Being a confidence man requires supreme self-confidence and Felix has that in abundance.For me the pivotal scene is when Felix is taken to the theater by his father to see a play in which one of the father's old school chums is starring. Felix is captivated by the magnetic attraction between audience and star. This is made even greater by the back stage visit he and his father make after the show. The star turns out to be much shorter than he appeared to be, with reddish hair instead of black, and rough skin instead of the smooth skin he appeared to have. His manner is coarse, not like the refined character he portrayed. Topping it off, he is in need of continuous reassurance that he did a good job, whereas the character he played was supremely confident and poised. This is the key to Felix's realization that for most of the world illusion is reality, and that the illusionist needs the audience just as the audience needs the illusionist.Whether Mann had a sequel planned is uncertain. We do leave Felix as a young man, wondering what his further adventures and potential growth might have been.As it is, this is a delightful story with a profound subtext. Are there any people like Felix around today?

Wasn't finished so that's likely why it doesn't have the polish or weight of Mann's other work. If you're new to this author, go with Magic Mountain or Buddenbrooks or Death in Venice.

Mann's last novel, but unfinished, yet all that's needed to enjoy and understand Mann's view of what makes up a con man. The book has less philosophy and detailed argument then most of his other works, is a little easier reading for those who might find some of his other work a touch daunting.

If you're a struggling writer, artist, musician, Thomas Mann is for you. This book is wildly funny and satisfying.The author understands the struggle and invites you in. The protaganist of the novel is realistic and naughty. You will see how Mann has inspired other writer's in his wake---look at the Talented Mr. Ripley novels by Patricia Highsmith---this book was her inspiration.

Funny but one must adapt to mittel-Europa kultur of a bygone age in order to enjoy.The reviewer happens to be an ancient mariner. Thus, adaptation fairly easy

It was for my wife.

Excellent! Thomas Mann has been, is a great writer!

At first I thought I was onto a good thing but it didn't really go anywhere. I did finish it and thought it was worth reading, just.

No c.omplaints

Loved it. Excellent translation of a fantastic novel.

Top! Fast delivery. Good Job.

Fanciful meandering tale, too passive and whimsical for my liking but if you're a fan of Mann, maybe it will float your boat.