Die Stunde der wahren Empfindung

Although he has dismissed everything familiar with disgust and weariness and can no longer envision a future, Gregor Keuschnig, press officer at the Austrian Embassy in Paris, resumes his usual contacts in light of the impending isolation. He watches with relief and regret as his wife departs and is touched by the note she leaves him: "Do not expect me to provide you with the meaning of your life." Keuschnig realizes that there will no longer be an intact system for his life either. In the "hour of true feeling," Keuschnig recognizes himself in a new and liberated way, capable of authentic experiences. After his child is abducted from a playground, and in his shock and helplessness he decides not to continue living, he suddenly experiences how his "long indifference" is replaced by a "sweet participation.".