The Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass

Historical Context and Significance

Bruno Schulz's «The Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass» is one of the key works of 20th-century Polish literature. Written in 1937, it is a collection of stories that continue the themes and style of his previous work, «The Cinnamon Shops». Schulz creates a unique world filled with symbolism and surrealism, where reality intertwines with fantasy. His works are often compared to those of Franz Kafka and Marcel Proust due to their deep psychological and philosophical nature. Schulz's influence on culture is evident in his ability to convey complex emotional states and inner experiences through rich language and metaphors. His work has significantly influenced subsequent generations of writers and artists, inspiring them to explore inner worlds and the boundaries of reality. Despite the tragic death of the author during World War II, his literary legacy continues to live on, inspiring readers and scholars worldwide.