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'Hunger' by Knut Hamsun is a gripping and emotionally evocative novel that follows the unnamed protagonist, a starving writer journalist, as he navigates extreme poverty and hunger in the streets of Oslo. The narrative delves into the protagonist's descent into madness, his struggles with pride and self-destruction, and his relentless pursuit of dignity amidst dire circumstances. The writing style is stark, intense, and primal, portraying the protagonist's inner turmoil and erratic behavior with vivid descriptions of near insanity and misery.

Despite the bleak and intense atmosphere, 'Hunger' is lauded for its ability to immerse readers in the protagonist's psyche, leading them through moments of sublime passion, despair, and defiance. The novel offers a compelling exploration of themes such as pride, honor, shame, self-deception, and the complexities of human irrationality. Through a stream of consciousness narrative, the book provides a chilling and uncompromising look at the harsh realities of literary life in Oslo at the turn of the twentieth century, making it a thought-provoking read for those contemplating a life in artistic pursuits.

If you liked Hunger, here are the top 100 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    Journey to the End of the Night by Louis-Ferdinand Celine
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    "Journey to the End of the Night" by Louis-Ferdinand Celine is a dark, misanthropic novel that follows the protagonist, Ferdinand Bardamu, through various stages of his life, from fighting in World War I to traveling through French colonial Africa, Detroit, and Paris. The narrative is marked with Celine's disgust at humanity's folly, malice, and greed, while also incorporating darkly comic elements and occasional satirical asides. The writing style is described as dense, harsh, and filled with cynical aphorisms that demand attention, creating enduring images that reflect the bitterness and rage at senseless slaughter and environmental destruction.

    Here's how it started. I'd never said a word. Not one word. It was Arthur Ganate[3] that made me speak up. Arthur was a friend from med school. So we meet on the Place Clichy. It was after breakfast. ...

  2. #2

    Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre
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    Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre is a philosophical novel that delves into the existential crisis of the protagonist, Antoine Roquentin. The book is written in a diary-like format, detailing Roquentin's thoughts and experiences as he grapples with the meaninglessness of life and his own existence. The narrative explores themes of existentialism, self-reflection, and the struggle to find purpose in a world devoid of inherent meaning. Sartre's writing style is introspective and contemplative, presenting a deep dive into the inner workings of the protagonist's mind.

    I think I’m the one who has changed: that’s the simplest solution. Also the most unpleasant. But I must finally realize that I am subject to these sudden transformations. The thing is that I rarely th...

  3. #3

    Growth of the Soil by Knut Hamsun
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    In the mid 19th century, Isak walks far into the Norwegian wilderness looking for a good piece of land. When he finds it, he builds a hut, clears the trees, and farms the soil. Over the years he is joined by Inger, who becomes his wife, has several children, and builds one of the most impressive farms in the area with his own labor. The story follows the family as more people settle in the area, new technology comes to the farm, the children grow up, and Isak and Inger grow old. Isak remains dedicated to the traditional values of working the land throughout his life. The book depicts a homesteader's life in rural northern Norway in the 2nd half of the 19th century. The narrative captures the simplicity of rural existence and the impact of nature on humanity.

    Hamsun's 'Growth of the Soil' is described as a beautifully written story that transcends time or place, providing a perspective on life and contentment. The book offers a nostalgic view of a simpler time and portrays the characters in a way that allows readers to discover their complexities. The writing style is praised for its simplicity yet ability to convey the nuances of relationships and the impact of nature on the characters' lives.

    This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included...

  4. #4

    No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai
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    "No Longer Human" by Osamu Dazai is a bleak and introspective novel that delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a character struggling with feelings of alienation and disconnection from society. The book explores themes of loneliness, suicide, and existential dread through Yozo's eyes as he navigates a world where he feels like an outsider. The writing style is described as powerful and impactful, with a narrative that captures the protagonist's internal turmoil and despair in a poignant manner.

    I can’t even guess myself what it must be to live the life of a human being. I was born in a village in the Northeast, and it wasn’t until I was quite big that I saw my first train. I climbed up and d...

  5. #5

    Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
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    'Notes from Underground' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novella that delves into the existential crisis of the unnamed protagonist, referred to as the Underground Man. The story is presented in a diary form, exploring the protagonist's self-loathing, bitterness, and feelings of insignificance. The narrative is a mix of philosophical musings, societal critique, and introspective reflections, showcasing the protagonist's struggles with alienation and his disdain for societal norms. Dostoyevsky's writing style is described as beautiful yet painful, capturing the essence of a man living a life of terrible insignificance.

    The novella is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the Underground Man's philosophical ramblings and the second part providing a narrative that sheds light on the protagonist's background and descent into the underground. Dostoyevsky weaves themes of free will, existentialism, and the human condition throughout the narrative, presenting a character who grapples with his own sense of identity and purpose. The book is praised for its smooth writing style, compelling storytelling, and the profound insights it offers into the complexities of human nature and societal conventions.

    I am a sick person . . . A spiteful one. An unattractive person, too. I think my liver is diseased. But I don’t give a damn about my disease and in fact I don’t even know what’s wrong with me. I do no...

  6. #6

    Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse
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    Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse is a complex exploration into the human psyche, focusing on the existential crisis of the protagonist, Harry Haller. The novel delves into the inner conflict between Haller's civilized side and the primitive wolf inside him, leading to a profound clash that brings him to the brink of peril. Throughout the story, various experiences challenge Haller to undergo a transformation, guided by intriguing characters like Hermine, who attempts to reconcile the two conflicting sides of his nature.

    The narrative unfolds as a surreal journey of self-discovery and redemption, where the protagonist navigates through themes of isolation, despair, and the search for meaning in life. Hesse leaves the interpretation of the blurred lines between fantasy and reality up to the reader, creating a thought-provoking and introspective tale that explores the complexities of human existence and the struggle to reconcile different aspects of one's personality.

    THE DAY HAD GONE BY JUST AS DAYS GO BY. I had killed it in accordance with my primitive and retiring way of life. I had worked for an hour or two and perused the pages of old books. I had had pains fo...

  7. #7

    The Fall by Albert Camus
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    The Fall by Albert Camus is a book-length soliloquy by a French judge penitent in an Amsterdam bar, confessing to a fellow Frenchman his fall from grace due to growing disenchantment with himself and society. The narrative delves deep into themes of guilt, hypocrisy, selflessness, and the realization of one's true nature, providing a powerful treatise on judgment, truth, and humanity. Through a series of monologues, the protagonist's transformation from a self-absorbed lawyer to a reflective recluse is explored, revealing the dark truths about human nature and the struggle with one's own morality.

    MAY I, monsieur, offer my services without running the risk of intruding? I fear you may not be able to make yourself understood by the worthy ape who presides over the fate of this establishment. In ...

  8. #8

    The Stranger by Albert Camus
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    "The Stranger" by Albert Camus is a novel that delves into existentialism through the story of Meursault, a man who seems indifferent and detached from the world around him. The plot follows Meursault as he navigates through life events such as his mother's death, a murder he commits, and a trial he faces, all while displaying a lack of emotion and connection with those around him. The writing style is described as choppy, matter-of-fact, and detached, reflecting the character's own demeanor and emphasizing the themes of absurdity and alienation.

    Camus' exploration of the absurdity of life and society's inability to understand a man like Meursault forms the core of the narrative. Through vivid storytelling and a compelling portrayal of existential themes, the book challenges readers to reflect on concepts of meaning, morality, and the human condition. The character of Meursault serves as a vehicle for Camus to question societal norms and beliefs, ultimately leading to a poignant exploration of existential philosophy and the complexities of human existence.

    The old people’s home is at Marengo, about eighty kilometers from Algiers, I’ll take the two o’clock bus and get there in the afternoon. That way I can be there for the vigil and come back tomorrow ni...

  9. #9

    Ask the Dust - The Saga of Arturo Bandini by John Fante
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    "Ask the Dust" by John Fante is a story set in LA in 1939, following the struggles of writer Arturo Bandini as he lives hand to mouth, blows his money as soon as he receives it, and falls in love with a waitress named Camila Lopez. Their relationship is portrayed as a love-hate dynamic, filled with volatile emotions and irrational choices. As the plot unfolds, Camilla ends up in a mental institution and disappears into the desert, leaving Bandini grappling with his own shortcomings and desires.

    The writing style of "Ask the Dust" is described as dark, beautifully told, and capturing the essence of 1930s Los Angeles. The novel is praised for its vivid portrayal of dive bars, cheap rooms, and the struggles of a young writer beset by love and affliction. The relationship between Bandini and Camilla is depicted as a blend of bitterness and warmth, with tragic characters and gorgeous prose creating a brief yet rewarding narrative that keeps readers engaged until the poignant ending.

    One night I was sitting on the bed in my hotel room on Bunker Hill, down in the very middle of Los Angeles. It was an important night in my life, because I had to make a decision about the hotel. Eith...

  10. #10

    The Tunnel by Ernesto Sabato
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    The Tunnel by Ernesto Sabato is a psychological novel that delves into the mind of a deranged artist, Juan Pablo Castel, who becomes obsessed with a woman named Maria Iribarne. The book follows Castel's descent into paranoia, jealousy, and possessive love, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome. The narrative is presented as a confessional account by Castel, showcasing his obsessive thoughts, irrational actions, and the psychological turmoil that consumes him. The writing style is described as taut and powerful, with vivid descriptions, metaphors, and monologues that provide insight into the protagonist's inner turmoil.

    It should be sufficient to say that I am Juan Pablo Castel, the painter who killed María Iribarne. I imagine that the trial is still in everyone’s mind and that no further information about myself is ...

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