Pushkin Press works extensively to support Zweig’s reputation in the English-speaking world, reissuing and newly translating his archive, and now holds the writer’s estate. Pushkin publisher Adam Freudenheim relates the resurgence in interest in Zweig to his “nostalgic look at the multi-linguistic and multi-cultural world of pre-World War I Austria-Hungary” that holds a particular interest post-Brexit. However, Freudenheim argues, foremost Zweig was simply a “great storyteller”. Case in point: Shooting Stars, Zweig’s fictional recreation of significant historical moments, remained in print in Germany for over 100 years.
Writing to his secretary and later second wife Lotte Altmann in 1934, Zweig praises the “colours and shapes of this city”, even “London’s murky light”. Now Zweig has a permanent place under these blue and grey skies.
By Natalie Perman
Stefan Zweig’s blue plaque can be seen at 49 Hallam Street, London, W1W 6JW. english-heritage.org.uk
