"Utz" is a novel written by Bruce Chatwin that tells the story of Kaspar Joachim Utz, a Czech art collector who is obsessed with collecting Meissen porcelain. The novel is set in Prague during the Cold War era, where Utz lives a reclusive life surrounded by his precious collection.
One day, Utz decides to escape to the West with his collection, but he is caught by the authorities and his collection is confiscated. Utz is left with nothing but memories of his beloved porcelain. The novel explores themes of obsession, art, and the impact of political regimes on individuals.
Throughout the story, Utz's passion for his collection is palpable, and his struggle to hold onto his identity in a changing world is both heartbreaking and compelling. Chatwin's prose is elegant and evocative, drawing the reader into Utz's world of beauty and obsession.
"Utz" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and the power of art to transcend political boundaries.