Patrick Süskind ​

Patrick Süskind is a German writer and screenwriter, known for his international bestseller novel "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer". Despite his success, Süskind remains a reclusive figure, shunning public attention and rarely giving interviews.

Quick Facts ​

• Author of the acclaimed novel "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer," which has been translated into 49 languages.
• Despite the worldwide success of "Perfume," he retired from writing literature almost completely in the 1990s.
• His work has been made into a popular film, directed by Tom Tykwer.
• Lives a secluded life in seclusion in Munich, Germany, rarely gives interviews and avoids public appearances.

Background ​

Süskind was born in 1949 in Ambach, Germany. After attending school, he studied medieval and modern history at the University of Munich and in Aix-en-Provence. In the early 1980s, he worked as a screenwriter for a Swiss TV station. During this time, he authored the play The Double: Four, Two and One-act Plays, which was produced in 1981. In 1985, Süskind gained international fame with his first novel, Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, which has been translated into 48 languages and sold over 20 million copies worldwide. Despite his success, Süskind remains a reclusive figure and rarely makes public appearances or gives interviews. His work often explores themes of identity, isolation, and the power of the senses.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Süskind is known for his exceptional detail in describing scents, which is a key feature that separates him from other authors. His works often delve into the darker sides of human nature, creating rich psychological narratives. They have been praised for their lush descriptions which create vivid and evocative settings. His novel "Perfume" has inspired a whole new genre of books exploring the sense of smell. Despite the dark themes and complex narratives, Süskind's work has been widely appreciated for its originality and creativity.

Notable Works ​

• Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (1985)
• The Pigeon (1987)
• On Love and Death (2006)
• Three Stories and a Reflection (1996)
• The Story of Mr Sommer (1991)