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Literary Fiction· Lithuania

The White Shroud

by Antanas Škėma
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1958Lithuanian
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About This Book

When Antanas Škėma published The White Shroud in 1958, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of literary fiction. Antanas Škėma's 'The White Shroud' is a seminal work in Lithuanian literature, exploring the existential struggles of an immigrant in post-war America. The novel delves into themes of alienation, identity, and the search for meaning in a disjointed world. Its stream-of-consciousness style and philosophical depth have earned it a place among the most important works of Lithuanian modernism. Themes of alienation, identity, existentialism run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorAntanas Škėma
Published1958
Country of Origin🇱🇹 Lithuania
LanguageLithuanian
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780989983215
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇱🇹 Lithuania

This book is part of Lithuania's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

The White Shroud by Antanas Škėma sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1958 in Lithuania, it engages with alienation, identity, existentialism, immigration in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. The appeal of The White Shroud lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of alienation, identity, existentialism, immigration is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Lithuania's literary landscape, Antanas Škėma occupies a significant position. The White Shroud is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

NYT Best Sellers
notable · global
20140
✍️
About the Author
Antanas Škėma
Lithuania
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Antanas Škėma is a Lithuania author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The White Shroud about?

Antanas Škėma's 'The White Shroud' is a seminal work in Lithuanian literature, exploring the existential struggles of an immigrant in post-war America. The novel delves into themes of alienation, identity, and the search for meaning in a disjointed world. Its stream-of-consciousness style and philosophical depth have earned it a place among the most important works of Lithuanian modernism.

Who wrote The White Shroud?

The White Shroud was written by Antanas Škėma, from Lithuania. First published in 1958.

What awards has The White Shroud won?

The White Shroud has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The White Shroud worth reading?

The White Shroud is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in alienation, identity, existentialism.

Where can I buy The White Shroud?

You can buy The White Shroud on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The White Shroud?

The White Shroud is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is The White Shroud from?

The White Shroud originates from Lithuania's literary tradition. Explore more books from Lithuania on our country page.

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