Några steg mot tystnaden is subtitled "A Novel about Imprisoned Ones," and, true to this intent, it gives a panoramic view of human cruelty, suffering, oppression, injustice, vanity, passion, infidelity, estrangement, revenge and anguish—all seen in the mirror of the past but directly reflected, by implication, in present-day human behavior. Surprisingly, however, the result is not a totally pessimistic work. The narrative's emphasis on the interdependence of people and actions, along with its sheer energy, creates a positive and exciting atmosphere; and despite the gloom and frequently harsh turns of fate depicted, the novel is imbued with a thirst for freedom, a hatred of tyranny, an appreciation of artistic imagination … and a love of justice…. (p. 137)

In his historical novels, Eyvind Johnson deals with time and its transformations. Not the least of his concerns is that of contemporary events and problems, however. That is why N...