Quicksands

"Quicksands" by Adolf Streckfuss is a story set in the late 1800s that follows Egon von Ernau as he battles feelings of hopelessness. On the brink of ending his life, Egon's plans are derailed by an unlikely encounter with Gottlieb Pigglewitch, a fellow sufferer who has also just tried to commit suicide. Egon rescues Pigglewitch, leading to a conversation where they share the sources of their personal grief. Pigglewitch reveals his problems with gambling and lost love, prompting Egon to rethink his dim outlook on life. This sets in motion a journey where the two men explore the meanings of life and death, and shows how even in the darkest moments there can be change.