(Franz & friends)
In my novel, Kafka In The Castle, I fill in the entries missing from his actual diaries. A hundred years ago, it is quite possible he had thoughts like these.
Ottla is his sister. and Fraulein G is a *young* lady from the village of Zürau, where Franz is staying with his sister. In this photo, Ottla is third from the right. It is unknown who Fraulein G really was.
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25 January 1918
I can not tell (and such thoughts often consume me) whether I’ve gone after too little in life – or too much.
27 January 1918
Fraulein G. came to dinner this afternoon, and although we all had a good time, and the meal was pleasant, I felt that she was being too familiar with me – with us. Of course, I am taken aback when even Ottla expresses affection (her laughter, and the way she touched my shoulder a few days ago), so the fault no doubt lies in me. There can be nothing more personal than a touch – written words can be read by anyone.
Well – she is young. As much to be envied as excused. Ottla turned an indulgent eye upon us, and then I walked her home with a bit more speed than usual. We both thought it wise – at my suggestion – not to linger long at her gate. She thinks us discreet (which, indeed, we are) but she has somehow not grasped the fact that the only thing faster than the village tongues are the village eyes.
28 January 1918
A month ago I said good-bye to F.
29 January 1918
Sometimes, no destination seems far enough away.
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