Look Back on Happiness

"Look Back on Happiness" is a novel written by the Norwegian author Knut Hamsun, originally published in 1912 under the Norwegian title "Siste kapitel" ("The Last Chapter"). The story revolves around the life of the main character, an elderly and disillusioned artist named Abel. Abel reflects on his past, his artistic career, and his unfulfilled ambitions. Set in a small coastal town in Norway, the novel explores themes of artistic creativity, aging, and the search for meaning in life. Abel's introspective journey leads him to revisit the moments of his life and confront his past decisions and regrets. Through the narrative, Hamsun delves into the complexities of human existence and the passage of time. "Look Back on Happiness" is known for its introspective and psychologically rich storytelling, and it is considered one of Hamsun's notable works. As with much of his writing, the novel delves into the inner workings of the human mind and emotions, offering a deep exploration of the human condition.