opening of the novel finds Mette alone in her new room, haunted by memories of Olga and beset by anxiety, yet determined to acclimate herself to an unfamiliar environment and her own solitude. She examines her surroundings, battles inner fears, and reflects on the armor she has developed from past suffering. Mette’s days are spent in museums and galleries, intent on self-education and growth, but she also feels keenly her outsider status among the pension’s guests. As she observes the social dynamics between different cliques, she hesitantly allows herself to become involved, ultimately attending a lively gathering where she meets new acquaintances—including the deeply troubled Gisela Werkenthin, whose pain mirrors her own. Throughout, the narrative immerses the reader in Mette’s restless introspection, emotional wounds, and her yearning for meaning and connection amid alienation. (This is an automatically generated summary.)