The volume "Rede und Antwort," with an afterword by Helmut Koopmann, gathers Thomas Mann's texts about his own work and his appreciations of friends and contemporaries. Thomas Mann is an author who willingly provides insights into his own creations. In brief introductions to readings, in afterwords, or lectures, he explains his work, his intentions, and foundations, thereby offering a unique glimpse into the writer's workshop. Conversely, Thomas Mann actively engaged with the development and works of his contemporaries. In speeches and essays, he addresses the creations of companions such as Hugo von Hofmannsthal, Heinrich Mann, André Gide, and Knut Hamsun.