Kerstin F. Wolff - Mein Leben im wirklichen Ich

2020, German, Kerstin F. Wolff,

Original title: "Mein Leben im wirklichen Ich: Trans*gedanken in Trans*gedichten" (My Life in the Real Me: Trans* Thoughts in Trans* Poems) by Kerstin F. Wolff.

Kerstin F. Wolff’s book Mein Leben im wirklichen Ich: Transgedanken in Transgedichten emerges as a poignant continuation of her literary and personal journey, following her earlier work Mein Weg zum wirklichen Ich, which chronicled her transformation from the hidden life of a man to the visible existence of a woman.

 

In this new volume, the narrative focus shifts from the turmoil and uncertainty of transition to a sense of arrival, of having reached a state of self-recognition and authenticity. The texts offer reflections on a life now lived openly, moving beyond fear, doubt, and despair to embrace memory, introspection, and political consciousness. Through her poems and essays, Wolff explores the nuanced realities of trans existence, allowing both personal and social dimensions to intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of thought and experience. Her work delves into the intersections of identity and society, highlighting how the personal is inherently political and how being a trans person shapes one’s perspective on the world.

 

Born in 1958 in Göttingen, Germany, Wolff pursued her education in business administration locally and has continued to reside in the Göttingen area. For many years, her creative pursuits were secondary to professional obligations, resulting in only small publications for close acquaintances, including poetry postcards and limited-run booklets. Among these early works were Schrittweise, published by Dittmer in 1976, Stolpersteine, self-published in 1980 in a very small edition, and Fenster, another limited self-publication in 1981. Over time, however, Wolff has carved out a more significant place for writing in her life, sharing her voice through books and public readings. 

 

This book, in particular, is marked by a contemplative tone that celebrates the act of arriving at oneself, offering readers insight into the maturity of lived experience and the reflective understanding of a life navigated with courage and resilience. Her poetry captures not only personal milestones but also engages with the broader discourse on gender, visibility, and societal norms, making the work resonate on both intimate and political levels. The reflective nature of the book invites readers to witness a life fully embraced, one that acknowledges past struggles while affirming present authenticity, presenting a powerful statement about identity, self-acceptance, and the ongoing journey toward visibility in a world that often marginalizes difference.

 

Through her eloquent and thoughtful writing, Wolff provides a space where trans experiences are not merely documented but celebrated, offering both solace and inspiration to those navigating similar paths, while also educating a broader audience about the complex and richly textured reality of trans lives. This collection stands as a testament to the resilience of spirit, the importance of self-expression, and the enduring power of poetry to capture the subtleties of human transformation. It is a work that balances introspection with societal critique, creating a dialogue between personal history and collective awareness, and firmly establishes Wolff as a vital voice in contemporary trans literature in Germany.

Available via buchshop.bod.de