Alone is a short yet incredibly powerful book that explores themes of loneliness and solitary living. The author reflects on an extended period of living alone in Berlin, sharing his emotional journey with honesty and depth. These reflections take on an even greater intensity with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdowns force everyone into isolation and put his primary friendships on hold.

What I found most moving is the author’s perspective on friendship as a central purpose in life. He offers so many thoughtful, beautifully written reflections on connection, solitude, and the difference between being alone and being lonely. Every sentence feels carefully crafted and if I had been reading a physical copy, I would have marked so many pages.

I also have to highlight the wonderful translation by Ben Fergusson, who is the author of An Honest Man, a book I truly love. Overall, Alone is a book I know I’ll return to. It resonated with me deeply, and I’m sure it will continue to offer new insights with each reread.