Wild Mouse

The story of Wilde Maus revolves around the life of Georg, a respected music critic living in Vienna. He believes strongly in the importance of treating others with courtesy, especially those in positions of power, such as kings or other authority figures. This perspective reflects his traditional and respectful approach to social interactions, which has guided much of his professional and personal life.

However, Georg's world is turned upside down when he is unexpectedly fired from the Viennese newspaper where he has been writing for many years. This sudden job loss leaves him in a state of shock and disillusionment. Despite his established reputation, he finds himself struggling financially and emotionally, which compels him to start contemplating his next steps. His chief editor, Jörg Hartmann, plays a pivotal role in this turning point by ending Georg's long-standing career, creating a significant emotional and professional setback.

Throughout this tumultuous period, Georg keeps his dismissal a secret from his wife, Johanna. She is a psychotherapist whose primary concern is her own desire to have children. Her preoccupation with pregnancy adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, as she remains unaware of Georg’s distress and plans. Meanwhile, Georg is grappling with feelings of betrayal and a desire to assert himself, which influences his subsequent actions.

In his quest for retaliation, Georg reconnects with his old friend Erich. Their friendship becomes a crucial element in the narrative, as Erich assists Georg in plotting his revenge against his former employer. This alliance not only fuels Georg's retaliatory impulses but also leads to a series of actions aimed at undermining the newspaper's authority. Georg’s acts of revenge begin with minor acts of vandalism, which quickly escalate in intensity and scope.

As the story unfolds, Georg's life spirals further out of control. His initial acts of protest and vandalism evolve into more extreme and reckless behaviors. Simultaneously, his personal life begins to suffer, transforming his otherwise tame, bourgeois existence into chaos. This downward spiral serves as a commentary on how feelings of betrayal and loss of dignity can push individuals beyond their limits, ultimately leading to unpredictable and often destructive outcomes. The narrative of Wilde Maus explores themes of authority, revenge, identity, and the fragile boundary between civility and chaos.