"The Road to the Open" was published by Arthur Schnitzler in 1908 and is one of only two novels (the other being Therese) by this Viennese author (1862-1931) better known for his short stories and plays (including Reigen - "Round Dance" - known to most English-speaking readers as La Ronde.) The principal character of Der Weg ins Freie is the aristocratic young composer Georg von Wergenthin-Recco who has talent but lacks the drive to get down to work, and spends most of his time socializing with members of the assimilationist, artistically sensitive Jewish bourgeoisie of Vienna and other non-Jews like himself who enjoy their company.