Heine institut michael ende biography

Michael Ende was by no means the first writer to find popularity burdensome, but on occasions the intrusion into his private life became intense. Enthusiastic readers would make the pilgrimage from Germany to visit ‘their author’ in Rome.

Michael Ende's Biography

Turning up at Ende’s villa in Genzano, they entered the grounds unannounced and strolled into the house. ‘Once they’ve ticked off the Basilica, it’s time to visit Ende,’ the author once commented. ‘Before I know it, I’ve got mum, dad and the kids just metres away from me, watching while I eat.’ Ende was aware that his life was becoming public property, but found it hard to get rid of his readers, especially since they often took offence.

A mountain of post gathered every day, usually from enthusiastic readers who congratulated him on his work, asked questions about individual passages, and wanted to know more about his ideas. But Ende also received letters from people asking him to share their problems, whether psychological, financial, romantic Michael Ende - a German story teller - Goethe-Institut BUV