Happy Austria - Few countries have so stubbornly avoided critical self-examination as the Austrian Second Republic since World War II. In an escape from the memory of its dark past, it sought refuge in a rosy future. Bathed in a rosy light, Austria will celebrate three times in 2005. "60-50-10" is the formula. It represents 60 years since the founding of the Second Republic, 50 years of the State Treaty, and 10 years of EU membership. Robert Menasse, a lucid critic of Austrian conditions, has examined and commented on the Second Republic from its beginnings. His essays provide insight into this distant land that feels close. A yellowed curtain is drawn aside, a window is opened: air and light come in. The present essays are updated.