The Figure of the Wall in Some Works of Rilke, Kafka and Musil

This article examines the “wall” as a metaphorical place of residence and reflection of the creator, herald, watchmen and ordinary citizens in the works of the early 20th century’s prominent Austrian authors – Kafka, Musil, and Rilke. The stories told from the wall in The Notes of Malte Laurids Brighe, The Castle, and The Potuguese Lady serve as evidence about dividing lines in the structure of the individual and the society. At the same time, they point to ways that are beyond the known dimensions of division.