The aim of the following article is to analyse the text of Das spanische Buch by Hermann Bahr. The text takes form of a diary in which the author describes experiences gained by him during his journey to Spain. However, it simultaneously serves as an outline of his never completed novel Der Einzige. The author of the following article depicts Das spanische Buch as a peculiar diary of impressions and sensations of the protagonist and in his constant quest for them she discerns the influence of Ernst Mach’s philosophy. Owing to Gothic art the protagonist is able to overcome the crisis brought on by continual stimulation of the senses and regain balance. The previous ‘Sensationnismus’ (life philosophy created by the protagonist based upon maximal concentration on impressions and sensations) is rejected in favor of a new life philosophy (‘spiritual Gothic’) based on listening to yourself and to your soul.