Alexander Ziegler (Swiss writer)

Alexander Ziegler (born July 20, 1944, in Zurich, Switzerland; died December 22, 2022, in Berlin, Germany) was a Swiss writer and psychotherapist known for his autobiographical novels and explorations of queer identity and social issues.

Ziegler studied German literature and philosophy at the University of Zurich. He gained recognition in the 1970s with his semi-autobiographical novels that openly addressed his experiences as a gay man in Swiss society. These works often explored themes of alienation, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating social norms and expectations.

His best-known novels include Die Konsequenz (The Consequence), published in 1975, which was adapted into a controversial film of the same name directed by Wolfgang Petersen. Other notable works include Das Herz ist niemals satt (The Heart is Never Full) and Ein ganz normales Chaos (A Completely Normal Chaos).

Beyond his fictional works, Ziegler also wrote non-fiction on psychological topics and worked as a psychotherapist in Berlin. His writing often intertwined personal experience with broader social commentary, making him a significant voice in the LGBTQ+ literature of the late 20th century. He continued to write and publish throughout his life, contributing to discussions on sexuality, identity, and the complexities of human relationships.

Ziegler's literary estate is managed by the Deutsches Literaturarchiv Marbach.