Hunger
by Knut Hamsun
Norwegian • Public Domain • Free to stream
The English translation of Sult. Same raw psychological intensity, same starving writer drifting through the city. The novel that influenced Kafka, Beckett and Hemingway.
About the book: Hunger
Hunger is a novel by the Norwegian author Knut Hamsun, published in 1890 by P.G. Philipsens Forlag. An extract was first published anonymously in the Danish magazine Ny Jord in November 1888. After its full publication in 1890, Hamsun made revisions to the novel's text in subsequent editions in 1899, 1907 and 1916.
Written after Hamsun's return from an ill-fated tour of America, Hunger is loosely based on the author's own impoverished life before his breakthrough in 1890. Set in late 19th-century Kristiania, now Oslo, the novel recounts the adventures of a starving young man whose sense of reality is giving way to a delusionary existence on the darker side of a modern metropolis. The novel has been hailed as the literary opening of the 20th century and an outstanding example of modern, psychology-driven literature, portraying the irrationality of the human mind in an intriguing and sometimes humorous manner.
Hunger is one of Hamsun's best known and most influential works. The novel encompasses Hamsun's insistence that the intricacies of the human mind ought to be the main object of modern literature, along with his depreciation of modern, urban civilisation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hunger free to listen to?
Yes, Hunger is completely free to stream. No account, no subscription, and no ads required. It is in the public domain.
Who wrote Hunger?
Hunger was written by Knut Hamsun.
Is Hunger in the public domain?
Yes, Hunger by Knut Hamsun is in the public domain and free to read, share, and listen to worldwide.
How long is Hunger to listen to?
Hunger takes approximately 6 hours to listen to in full.
When was Hunger written?
Hunger was first published in 1890. It is now in the public domain and free to stream.
Who narrates Hunger?
Hunger uses AI multi-voice narration. Each character has a distinct voice — narrators, heroes, villains and supporting characters all sound different, making it easy to follow the story.
Can I download Hunger?
No download is needed. Hunger streams directly in your browser — no app, no account, no signup required. Just press play.
What genre is Hunger?
Hunger is classic literature. It is a classic work of literature now in the public domain.