The piece reviews Navid Kermani's latest novel "Sommer 24," suggesting that it encapsulates a specific literary style that has emerged in Germany, where contemporary events heavily influence the narrative. This genre, characterized by a blend of intellectually charged prose and personal storytelling, often struggles to create a coherent plot, with the author instead functioning as a moderator of characters rather than an active storyteller. Kermani's approach exemplifies this trend, as he presents a self-referential narrator grappling with current events without delving deeply into the complexities of those themes.

The author expresses disappointment at Kermani's execution, labeling the protagonist as a "haunted" figure by present-day reality, who seems overly cautious not to venture into darker or more profound territories. This restraint, according to the article, results in a narrative that feels superficial and fails to engage with the deeper implications of the issues it seeks to portray. Instead of exploring significant themes through a well-constructed story, the novel appears to hold back, preventing any meaningful exploration of human experience.

In conclusion, while "Sommer 24" attempts to address pressing contemporary issues through the lens of the author's personal experiences, it ultimately falls short due to its lack of narrative depth and the excessive self-awareness of its narrator. This results in a reading experience that may resonate with those familiar with the author's intellectual background, but fails to leave a lasting impact on the broader literary landscape.