Günther Kunert

Kunert, Günther 

Born Mar. 6, 1929, in Berlin. German writer (German Democratic Republic).

After 1945, Kunert studied at the Higher School of Applied Arts in Berlin. His first book of poetry, Roadmarks and Wall Inscriptions (1950), which is imbued with patriotism and the struggle for a new life in the German land, was received with approval by J. R. Becher. Kunert’s works—for example, the verse collections Everyday Things (1961), Uninvited Guest (1965), and Open Exit (1972)—are distinguished by their thematic contemporaneity, vivid imagery, and masterful satire; many of them show the influence of B. Brecht. Kunert also writes screenplays, opera librettos, and radio plays. He was awarded the T. Mann Prize (1962) and the J. R. Becher Prize (1973).

WORKS

Unter diesem Himmel Berlin, 1955.
Das Kreuzbrave Liederbuch. Berlin, 1961.
Notizen in Kreide. Leipzig, 1970.

REFERENCE

Werner, K. “Zur Brecht-Rezeption bei G. Kunert und H. M. Enzensber.” Weimarer Beitrage. 1968, Brecht-Sonderheft.