Tamara Štajner: What if I had a different life?

Tamara Štajner's latest novel, Luft nach unten, explores themes of mother-daughter relationships, unfulfilled desires, and the complexities of modern partnerships through the lens of protagonist Iva. The book delves into emotional depths and destructive dynamics within families, particularly focusing on the strained yet complex bond between Iva and her mother. Set against the backdrop of former Yugoslavia and its impact on women's roles, Štajner crafts a narrative rich with introspection and humor. The novel features intimate SMS dialogues between Iva and her partner Felix, highlighting their struggles with infertility and the resulting tensions in their relationship. Štajner's work has already garnered attention, with excerpts from the novel being read during a competition for the Bachmann Prize two years ago. The novel opens with Iva's reflections on alternate lives she might have led, a theme echoed by American poet Sylvia Plath, whose quote serves as the epigraph. Štajner discusses how literature often reflects existential questions, such as whether one could lead a different life. Her personal connection to these themes is evident, having been born in the former Yugoslavia before moving to Vienna for music studies. She has lived in Vienna for over two decades and completed her master's degree in viola performance at the University of Music and Performing Arts. Štajner has become deeply embedded in Viennese culture, including the use of the word "eh," which holds multiple meanings in everyday speech. Štajner's exploration of mother-daughter relationships extends beyond fiction. In an interview with the KURIER newspaper, she discussed how her own mother reacted to readings of the novel's unsent letters to her. These letters were initially perceived as accusatory but later understood as expressions of love. This dynamic mirrors the complexity of Iva's relationship with her mother, who was both demanding and supportive. Štajner notes the absence of the father figure in both her story and her own life, raising questions about the role of fathers in shaping family dynamics. The novel's structure is fluid, incorporating chats, letters, and shifts in location to maintain reader engagement. Štajner draws parallels between composing music and writing, emphasizing the importance of varying tone and style to keep the audience interested. Her journey from music to literature reflects a broader exploration of identity and possibility. Štajner's decision to move to Vienna for music studies was influenced by a teacher's advice, highlighting the significance of language learning in opening new avenues for personal and professional growth. Štajner's work challenges traditional narratives surrounding female roles, particularly in the context of former Yugoslavia. Through Iva's experiences, she examines the pressures faced by women in balancing personal aspirations with familial expectations. The novel's reception has sparked discussions about gender dynamics in literature, with Štajner acknowledging the latent sexism present in literary circles. Her portrayal of Iva's relationship with Felix underscores the complexities of modern relationships, where humor and vulnerability coexist. The novel's release has prompted interest in Štajner's future projects, with readers eager to see how she continues to explore themes of identity, choice, and the multifaceted nature of human relationships. Her ability to blend personal experience with fictional storytelling has positioned her as a compelling voice in contemporary literature. As Luft nach unten gains traction, it is anticipated that Štajner will continue to push boundaries in her narrative approach, offering fresh perspectives on familiar themes.