The book "Herkunft" by Botho Strauss is a profound and personal work that explores the author's memories of his childhood and youth in the 1940s and 1950s. In this intimate reflection, Strauss recounts his formative experiences in the cities of Naumburg and Bad Ems, which significantly influenced his identity and writing. Particularly striking is the portrait of his father, a war veteran, whose disappointment with the world and the loving yet realistic depiction of his character are central to the narrative. "Herkunft" is not only an autobiographical account but also a reflection on the roots and influences that shape a person's life. This concentrated and rich work is a significant contribution to German literature and offers readers a deep insight into the thought processes of a great writer.