The Trouble with Happiness (International Edition)

In these brief, acid-sharp stories, Tove Ditlevsen, author of
The Copenhagen Trilogy
, explores the complexities of love, marriage, and family life. Ordinary events—a wife's quiet anxiety, a child's lost treasure, a woman's yearning for a yellow silk umbrella—unfold into dark and disconcerting narratives. Ditlevsen masterfully delves into themes of yearning, fear, and the elusive nature of happiness, offering readers a collection that is both poignant and unsettling. Translated by Michael Favala Goldman, these stories showcase Ditlevsen's pure and dazzling insight into the human condition.
Why You Should Read?
Experience the unique literary voice of Tove Ditlevsen, celebrated for her profound insights into everyday life and human emotions.
Delve into a collection of short stories that transform mundane occurrences into deeply psychological and often unsettling explorations of happiness and despair.
Discover a masterclass in concise storytelling, where each narrative is crafted with acid-sharp precision and emotional depth.
Gain a new perspective on the complexities of relationships and the often-unseen struggles within domestic life.
About the Author
Tove Ditlevsen
(1917–1976) was a renowned Danish poet and author, celebrated for her candid and often autobiographical works. Her writing frequently explored themes of childhood, womanhood, addiction, and mental health, earning her a significant place in Danish literature. She is best known internationally for
The Copenhagen Trilogy
.
Michael Favala Goldman
is a poet and translator of Danish literature. He has translated several works by Tove Ditlevsen, bringing her distinctive voice to English-speaking audiences and contributing to her growing international recognition.