Kierkegaard's diaries are one of the most remarkable documents of world literature. As one of the most insightful and imaginative, yet also profound writers in Europe, he was significant as a poet, philosopher, and religious thinker. During the 20 years of his intellectually active life—he lived to be only 42—he entrusted his thoughts and concerns to his diaries almost continuously, with only a few interruptions. From a collection of witty and deeply probing ideas and impressively described observations, these diaries evolve into a "constant commentary" on his inner experiences through two emotional catastrophes. Thus, we gain an insightful glimpse into the inner history of this incredibly productive and reflective thinker, processing the twists and turns of his thoughts and feelings; the external facts of life are mirrored within them.