From the Nazis to tolerance: Cordt Schnibben's departure into freedom

From the Nazis to tolerance: Cordt Schnibben's departure into freedom

In Bremen, an exciting chapter in literary history takes place: Cordt Schnibben, a well -known journalist and author, has published his first novel "Lila Eul". The novel, which combines autobiographical and fictional elements, offers a deep insight into the turbulent period of the 1960s and Schnibben's own experiences in a family characterized by National Socialist views. He himself was born in Bremen in 1952 and has since had a remarkable career since then. Like Bremen two , Schnibben grew up in an environment that significantly shaped his view of the world. His parents captured their National Socialist views, which later moved him to a rebellion against their ideology.

The loss of his mother at the age of 13 and his father's dangerous past, who almost escaped a death sentence, became crucial points in Schnibben's life. These formative experiences led him to study in East Berlin and the decision to become a journalist. At the beginning he was unsuccessful at the Henri Nannen School, but he stayed persistent and found his way to publish in renowned magazines such as "Zeit" and "Spiegel". Like taz noted, the trip took him to the "Lila Eul", a Bremen Institution for Youth Culture, where he spent countless weekends and gained important experience.

a look into the past

In "Lila Eul", Schnibben presents an ego narrator named Carl, who worked as a cable carrier at "Beat Club" programs. Here he experiences Jimi Hendrix in the Marquee Club in London, which leaves a deep impression. The novel stimulates thinking and combines Schnibben's personal experiences with historical events and famous personalities of the time. Sometimes the reader is reminiscent of pioneering moments, as the arrest of Schnibbens by the Stasi in the GDR, when he recommended LSD to expansion of consciousness. Prof. Dr. Horst Pöttker is also highlighted the role of journalism in the recent history of Germany. Schnibben's records are not only relevant in terms of time, they are also a tribute to freedom of the press that has been celebrated in the Federal Republic for 60 years.

The critics are split: While some praise the detailed research and integration of contemporary witnesses, others complain that Schnibben emotionally do not capture the atmospheres of the 1960s. Nevertheless, it is striking that the novel establishes a connection to the musicians of the time, including the Rolling Stones, and a playlist with over a hundred songs that can be called up on Spotify via a QR code. This musical background gives the work additional charm and lets readers immerse yourself in the time.

a personal heir

on a personal level, Schnibben also reflects his role as father and grandfather; Today he has five children and eleven grandchildren, whom he wants to give tolerance and cosmopolitanism. Few authors have the skill of putting their personal narratives in such a broad historical context, and Schnibben's “Lila Eul” is an impressive example of this. In an interview with Bremen two, he tells of lively experiences with Che Guevara and shares his views about Helmut Schmidt and immigration to Germany, which gives the reader a comprehensive insight into his life story and the early days of the Federal Republic.

whether you match the reviews or not - one thing is certain: Schnibben has created a remarkable work with his “purple owl” that addresses both history and personal transformation and thus occupies an important place in the German literary landscape.