Go, Went, Gone by Jenny Erpenbeck follows Richard, a retired German philology professor, as he befriends and tries to assist a group of African refugees in Berlin. Initially unsure how to fill his time, Richard's perspective changes after encountering the refugees protesting for work and housing rights. His efforts to help them navigate bureaucratic barriers reveal the severity of their plight and inspire him to offer support and friendship. The book addresses themes of displacement, immigration policy, and human connection.

This book contains themes of violence, death, and trauma related to the refugees' experiences.

Jenny Erpenbeck's Go, Went, Gone is lauded for its poignant exploration of Europe's refugee crisis, blending profound empathy with a reflective narrative. Critics praise its emotional depth, nuanced character development, and stark societal commentary. However, some find its pace slow and narrative style distant. Overall, it's an impactful read on human displacement.

Readers who would enjoy Go, Went, Gone by Jenny Erpenbeck are those interested in contemporary social issues, particularly immigration and displacement. Fans of The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead or Exit West by Mohsin Hamid will appreciate its poignant exploration of human rights and identity within modern society.

Contemplative / Melancholic / Informative / Emotional / Mysterious

- Go, Went, Gone was originally published in German under the title Gehen, ging, gegangen and was translated into English by Susan Bernofsky, a renowned translator known for her work on Franz Kafka and Robert Walser.
- Jenny Erpenbeck, the author of Go, Went, Gone, is an award-winning German writer and opera director, whose literary works often explore themes of history, memory, and identity.
- Go, Went, Gone received several accolades, including being longlisted for the 2018 Man Booker International Prize, highlighting its international recognition and critical acclaim.

**Richard**  
A retired philology professor adjusting to life after academia, who becomes increasingly involved with a group of refugees in Germany, driven by his background in Greek mythology and a newfound sense of empathy.

**Rashid**  
A vocal and bold refugee likened to Zeus by Richard, who is committed to protest as a means of coping with the pressures he faces as an immigrant, including threats to their living situation.

**Osarobo**  
An 18-year-old refugee from Ghana who bonds with Richard over music and piano lessons, illustrating the intimate connections formed amidst challenging circumstances.

**Awad**  
A refugee whose childhood was marked by loss and conflict, having worked as an auto mechanic before escaping Libya, and who shares poignant insights about identity and the connections made with fellow refugees.

Jenny Erpenbeck

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Go, Went, Gone Summary and Study Guide

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Go, Went, Gone Chapters 1-10  Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-20  

Go, Went, Gone Chapters 11-20   Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-30   

Go, Went, Gone Chapters 21-30    Summary & Analysis

Chapters 31-40    

Go, Went, Gone Chapters 31-40     Summary & Analysis

Chapters 41-55   

Go, Went, Gone Chapters 41-55    Summary & Analysis

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Go, Went, Gone

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