I am writing a book. I am exploring classic literature that is fiction, pre1950ish, that explores one of two things:

Nihilism with theme of nihilism focused on the individual rather than a focus on nihilism as it applies to society and people as whole.

or

transcdence, also focused on the individual in a Buddhism enlightening sense rather than 2001 space odyssey type themes of transcendence of society or man kind.

As an example of things I have been studying thus far in preparation Waiting for Godot, King in Yellow, Kafka, certain fairytales such as the Shadow by HC Andersen, Notes from the underground, the tunnel, and stuff like that I guess.

Don't want to miss something good I could have used. I would appreciate any cool suggestions that fit these themes.