There are metaphysical problems, problems of human existence, that philosophy has never known how to grasp in all their concreteness and that only the novel can seize.

In order to make the novel into a polyhistorical illumination of existence, you need to master the technique of ellipsis, the art of condensation. Otherwise, you fall into the trap of endless length.

Broch is an inspiration to us, not only because of what he accomplished, but also because of all that he aimed at and could not attain.

Milan Kundera Quotes