New publication examines the poetics of ‘Eigen-Sinn’
A connection with tradition: there has been a close relationship between Nobel Prize winner Herta Müller and Paderborn University since the winter semester of 1989/90. At that time, Müller held the Paderborn guest lectureship for writers. Since then, she has returned regularly for lectures and readings. Her work has not only shaped the German-language literary landscape, but has also had a significant influence on research at Paderborn University. With his Herta Müller Research Centre and numerous publications, Prof. Dr Norbert Otto Eke has advanced the academic debate on Müller's work. In a new publication (‘Irrläufe. Herta Müllers Poetik des Eigen-Sinns’), Eke analyses the linguistic gimmicks and metaphorical condensations in Müller's texts.
‘This study is of great interest not only to literary scholars, but also to the general public and students in particular. Paderborn University plays a central role here, as it has a long-standing relationship with Herta Müller, who was honoured with an honorary doctorate by the Faculty of Arts and Humanities in 2012,’ says Eke. In his work, he sheds light on how Herta Müller's texts create unique, often quirky images that transport the reader into a world of irritation and reflection. Eke: ‘Müller's poetological principle of semiotic overshooting is emphasised as a central aspect of her narrative art, which raises ethical and moral questions and encourages an examination of the human condition.’
The close connection between Herta Müller and Paderborn University is reflected in numerous joint projects and events. Eke published the first comprehensive book on Herta Müller back in 1991, followed by many other academic works. Müller's Paderborn lectures found their way into key works such as ‘Wie Wahrnehmung sich erfindet’ and ‘Der Teufel sitzt im Spiegel’.
The publication of ‘Irrläufe’ will deepen and expand research into Herta Müller's work. Paderborn University is thus continuing its tradition of promoting important literary and cultural debates and making them accessible to a wide audience.
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