[saopinax]

A quick word about Mann's writing techniques. He makes extensive use of the leitmotif in relation to his characters. Klaus Heinrich's hand, Albrecht's skull-like face. He often extends the leitmotiv to their names.

I had noted oft-repeated phrases describing something the characters do habitually:

Albrecht - lower lip sucked gently against the upper one

Klaus Heinrich - hiding left hand behind his back

Sammet - ends all sentences with "Yes"

Imma - pursing her lips and turning her head from side to side
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And some which are descriptive of a look:

Mr Spoelman - thin hands half protected by soft cuffs

Countess - blush on one side of the face, pale on the other
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Do these relate to "leitmotif"? Sorry, complete ignorance again!