Asja

A restless young traveler narrates his own early life, recalling a time when he felt invincible, free of responsibilities, and driven solely by a fascination with people. He roams without a set destination, preferring the chatter, laughter, and gestures of strangers over monuments or grand landscapes. His curiosity turns every encounter into a lively observation, and the bustling crowd becomes the backdrop for his restless spirit.

The story shifts to a modest German town on the left bank of the Rhine, where he seeks solitude after a brief but intense attachment to a widowed acquaintance from a spa. The town’s narrow streets, illuminated by flickering lanterns, the gentle flow of the river, and the soft glow of night‑time bridges create a quiet, almost dreamlike atmosphere. As he wanders beneath the towering clock tower, the mingling scents of wine and fresh air stir memories and a lingering yearning that colors his youthful wanderings.