Finished: The Sorrows of Young Werther (Goethe). Awww, what a sad story. Young Werther, age 23, goes to visit a small town near his home in Germany to figure out what he wants to do with his life. He meets Lotte, the oldest sister of a passel of children, left with only their father after the mother has died. She is a truly good soul and is doing her best to raise her brothers and sisters. Werther falls instantly and madly in love with Lotte...and she feels their strong connection at once as well. They are two of like spirits...two peas in a pod. However, Lotte is betrothed to Albert, who she loves. Werther can't find anything wrong with Albert, and they become friends. The entire story is told in letters from Werther back to his dear friend back home. He speaks of his happiness and exploration and the beauty of nature when he first explores the town...and then of his falling for the love of his life, Lotte. Then, of course, he writes of his desolation and despair when Lotte and Albert marry. Werther moves away to go and take a position working in the royal court, but he has misfortunes there as well and questions how long he should remain on this earth. After reconnecting with Lotte and Albert, he loves Lotte as strongly as ever. Albert, though, has decided that Lotte needs to cool her friendship with Werther. It's a moot point, however, because Werther has decided to end his life. After a heart-wrenching scene with Lotte, and an emotional farewell letter, Werther kills himself. Sad. :-( This is supposed to be one of Goethe's most popular writings, along with Faust. I've read them both now, and I do appreciate Goethe's ability to draw me in and make me care! I just can't help thinking that young Werther might have found another love of his life if he'd only given it a chance.