August Strindberg's There Are Crimes and Crimes is a play that feels less like a period piece and more like a psychological thriller. Written in 1899, it drops us into the bohemian world of Paris, but the real drama is all internal.

The Story

We meet Maurice, a playwright on the cusp of huge success. His play is about to open, and he's torn between two women: the gentle Jeanne, mother of his young daughter Marion, and the captivating actress Henriette. In a moment of passion and frustration with Henriette, Maurice angrily wishes that the "child"—his own daughter—were dead. The very next day, Marion dies suddenly from an illness. There's no proof Maurice caused it, but the coincidence is devastating. As his play becomes a smash hit, Maurice is consumed by guilt. The public celebrates him, but he feels like a monster. The story follows his spiral as he grapples with this moral horror, wondering if his dark wish somehow made him responsible.

Why You Should Read It

What hooked me was how Strindberg makes you feel the weight of a thought. This isn't about courts and lawyers; it's about the court of your own conscience. Maurice's torment is so vivid, you almost feel guilty just reading it. The play brilliantly explores how success can feel hollow and even sinful when it's built on personal tragedy, real or imagined. The side characters, especially the contrasting women in Maurice's life, aren't just props—they reflect different parts of his crumbling world. It’s a raw look at ambition, guilt, and the scary power of the human mind.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves a tight, tense character study. If you're into stories about moral dilemmas, like Crime and Punishment but want something you can read in one sitting, this is your match. It’s also great for modern drama fans—you can easily see this staged today. Maybe skip it if you're looking for a light, happy read. But if you want a short, powerful punch of psychology that sticks with you, Strindberg’s play absolutely delivers.