Name: Irások irókról: Kritikák by Frigyes Karinthy
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (11 reviews)
Author: Karinthy, Frigyes, 1887-1938

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Irások irókról: Kritikák by Frigyes Karinthy

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By Mila Cox Posted on Mar 30, 2026

In Category - Humanities

Authors: Karinthy, Frigyes, 1887-1938 Published By : Karinthy, Frigyes, 1887-1938

Book Language: Hungarian

Hey, have you ever wondered what it would be like to get inside the head of a brilliant, witty writer from a century ago? That's exactly what 'Irások irókról' offers. It's not a novel, but a collection of literary criticism by Frigyes Karinthy, one of Hungary's sharpest minds. The 'mystery' here isn't a whodunit—it's the puzzle of understanding other great writers. Karinthy acts like a detective, picking apart the work and personalities of his literary heroes and contemporaries. He asks: What makes their writing tick? What secret anxieties or joys fuel their stories? Reading this feels like eavesdropping on a fantastic conversation in a Budapest café, where Karinthy passionately breaks down everything from classic authors to the rising stars of his day. It's a masterclass in observation, served with a huge dose of personality and wit. If you love books about books, and want to see literature through the eyes of a true enthusiast, this is your next read.

File: Irások irókról: Kritikák by Frigyes Karinthy

Let's clear something up first: this isn't a storybook. Irások irókról (Writings About Writers) is a collection of essays and critiques. Think of it as Karinthy's personal notebook, filled with his thoughts on the literary giants and emerging talents of his time. He writes about everyone from Hungarian greats to international figures, dissecting their styles, their themes, and the unique spark that makes their work memorable.

The Story

There's no plot in the traditional sense. The 'journey' is following Karinthy's mind as it dances from one author to the next. One essay might be a deep, respectful analysis of a classic novelist's technique. The next could be a playful, almost cheeky take on a popular contemporary's latest work. He connects ideas, compares styles, and isn't afraid to point out what he loves or what leaves him cold. The structure is loose and conversational—you're simply along for the ride in his brilliant, associative thoughts.

Why You Should Read It

You read this for Karinthy himself. His voice is the star. He's incredibly smart but never dry. His criticism feels alive, like he's arguing with a friend or gushing about a new discovery. You get a double lesson: you learn about all these other writers through his eyes, and you also get a masterclass in how to think critically and joyfully about art. It pulls back the curtain on the early 20th-century literary world in Central Europe, making it feel immediate and full of debate. It reminds you that the passion readers and writers feel for stories is timeless.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for curious readers who love 'books about books.' It's for anyone who finishes a novel and immediately wants to discuss it. You don't need to be a scholar—you just need an interest in how stories work and a appreciation for a truly great, opinionated mind holding court. If you enjoy the feeling of getting smarter while being thoroughly entertained, Karinthy's your guide. A word of caution: some references might be obscure if you're unfamiliar with early 1900s Hungarian literature, but Karinthy's wit and insight are so universal, you'll enjoy the trip regardless.