Hermann Hesse Quote. Postcard. Published by Tushita in Germany. "Some of us think holding on makes us strong, But sometimes it is letting go." The following information is NOT published on this postcard. Hermann Hesse 1877 – 1962) was a German-Swiss poet, novelist, and painter. In 1946, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature. His most famous works include Steppenwolf, Siddhartha, Demian, and The Glass Bead Game all of which explore an individual's search for spirituality and remaining true to ones unique path. "I wanted only to live in accord with the promptings which came from my true self. Why was that so very difficult?"