Little Eyolf is a powerful and thought-provoking play by Henrik Ibsen that delves into complex themes such as family, duty, and the nature of love. The Mencken translation brings a fresh perspective to this classic work, capturing the emotional depth and psychological complexity of the characters.

The story follows the tragic consequences of neglect and unfulfilled desires within a family. As the characters grapple with their own inner demons and confront the harsh realities of their relationships, Ibsen skillfully weaves together a narrative that is both intense and poignant.

The language in this translation is beautifully poetic and evocative, drawing the reader into the characters' inner worlds and capturing the raw emotions that drive their actions. The dialogue is crisp and full of tension, reflecting the underlying conflicts that simmer beneath the surface.

Overall, Little Eyolf (Mencken Translation) is a captivating read that shines a light on the darker aspects of human nature and the search for meaning in a world filled with pain and longing. Ibsen's timeless exploration of the human condition is as relevant today as it was when the play was first written, making it a must-read for fans of classic literature.

Book Description:
One of the four profound plays of Ibsen’s late period (along with “The Master Builder,” “John Gabriel Borkman,” and “When We Dead Awaken”), “Little Eyolf” tells the story of Albert Allmers, a writer who has yearned to leave behind a literary or philosophical legacy of some kind, but who finally decides to invest that yearning in the life of his little handicapped son, Eyolf. Rita Allmers loves her husband so obsessively that she hates any rival for his affection, whether it be Allmer’s literary magnum opus, Little Eyolf himself, or Albert’s strangely devoted sister Asta. Little Eyolf’s tragic death, possibly orchestrated by the eldritch old Rat-Wife, brings about a psychological climax among the three adults, as they reveal to each other deep conflicts of love and hate, complex erotic desires, raw honesty about their emotional emptiness in the face of human tragedy, and the realization that all that really matters to any one of them is Life itself. The famous H. L. Mencken heads a team effort committed to the colloquial, lucid rendition of this alternative translation. ( Expatriate)