Who Would Like This Book:
This is a gripping tale for anyone fascinated by the psychology of what happens when a seemingly ordinary life unravels overnight. Simenon’s storytelling expertly peels back the layers of his protagonist, Kees Popinga, as he’s thrust from safe routine into existential chaos. The vivid, detail-rich journey blends suspense and dark humor, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers, existential fiction, and those who loved Camus’ "The Stranger" or films like "Requiem for a Dream." If you’re curious about what lurks beneath the surface of normalcy - or enjoy quirky, thought-provoking character studies - this book is for you.
Who May Not Like This Book:
This probably isn’t the book for readers looking for a classic detective story with clear heroes and answers - there’s no Maigret here! Some may find the pace uneven, with lots of introspection and not enough action. The protagonist isn’t always likable, and his mental decline can make for an uncomfortable, even frustrating, experience. If you prefer tidy narratives, straightforward mysteries, or uplifting tales, you might want to skip this one.
About:
The Man Who Watched Trains Go By by Georges Simenon follows the story of Kees Popinga, a respectable middle-aged office worker who experiences a sudden breakdown after discovering his boss's fraudulent activities, leading to a series of impulsive and violent actions. As Kees spirals into madness, he deserts his family, commits a murder, and embarks on a journey to Paris where he becomes a subject of media scrutiny. The novel delves into criminal psychology rather than a traditional detective story, offering a psychological exploration of a man's unraveling mental state and his desperate attempts to evade the consequences of his actions.
Simenon's writing style in The Man Who Watched Trains Go By is characterized by a detailed portrayal of Kees Popinga's descent into madness, weaving together everyday details with hints of paranoia and detachment from reality. The narrative is primarily told from Kees's perspective, allowing readers to empathize with his character and understand the internal struggles he faces as he navigates a world where his identity as a "normal man" is shattered, culminating in a quizzical existential tale that is both humorous and thought-provoking.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Triggers include violence, mental illness, themes of crime, and potential suicide.
From The Publisher:
"One of the greatest writers of the twentieth century . . . Simenon was unequaled at making us look inside, though the ability was masked by his brilliance at absorbing us obsessively in his stories." -The Guardian
In this Georges Simenon classic, a Dutch clerk flees to Paris with his crooked boss's money and meets the woman behind the man
"A certain furtive, almost shameful emotion . . . disturbed him whenever he saw a train go by, a night train especially, its blinds drawn down on the mystery of its passengers."
Kees Popinga is a respectable Dutch citizen and family man-until the day he discovers his boss has bankrupted the shipping firm he works for, and something snaps. Kees used to watch the trains go by on their way to exciting destinations. Now, on some dark impulse, he boards one at random, and begins a new life of recklessness and violence. The Man Who Watched the Trains Go By is a chilling portrayal of a man who breaks from society and goes on the run asks who we are, and what we are capable of.
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About the Author:
Georges Simenon was born in Liège, Belgium, in 1903. He is best know in Britain as the author of the Maigret novels and his prolific output of over 400 novels and short stories have made him a household name in continental Europe. He died in 1989 in Lausanne, Switzerland, where he had lived for the latter part of his life.
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