Now, about The Pathseeker, Kertész in general, and Kafka. I don’t think there is any reason to read anything by Kertész before reading another Kafka. I don’t think it would help in your reading of Kafka because they are actually very different in essence. The Kafka remark above is meant more to suggest the general disorientation the reader feels as people do things that seemingly make no sense. I was thinking particularly of The Trial. The main difference is that this one is not abstract while The Trial is very abstract and allegorical. Unlike much of Kafka, the actions in this novel do not represent symbolically anything other than what they are. This story is quite literal; the phantasmagoria, all too real.

I think this is a great place to start Kertész, though. In fact, I almost wish I would have started here because my reading of this suggestive work was informed by my readings of his more overt works.

So, should I tackle some of Kertesz’ works before trying another Kafka.

If yes, should I start with this novel.

Great review, BTW.