Overcoming the human
This novel is a neglected gem of the decadent movement. It concerns a young man who, influenced by Nietzsche, wishes to overcome all accepted rules and traditions, especially those relating to love. He desires to give expression to his sexual drives regardless of the consequences inevitably incurred precisely because of the existence of the ingrained social biases he endeavors to overcome. However, this leads only to tragedy all around: for the women he loves, his best friend, his acquaintances, and even for himself. He cannot overcome the guilt he feels at the results of his actions, no matter how much he believes he should be able to express his feelings and instincts freely. This dilemma becomes a torture for him. As for literary quality, the trilogy is uneven. It is historically extremely important, however, as it reflects important concerns of the time (1890s), and its ambiguity is praiseworthy. Moreover, Przybyszewski's writings, especially his theoretical writings, have been unjustly forgotten. Their influence on the decadent movement, especially in central and eastern Europe, was extraordinary and deserves greater recognition.
