Description

This monumental novel chronicles the tumultuous coming-of-age of Louis Seynaeve amidst the political and social upheaval of Flanders during World War II. As Belgium grapples with German occupation, young Louis navigates a world where collaboration feels as natural as breathing, exploring themes of identity, morality, and the complex realities of war. Hugo Claus masterfully blends searing realism with dark humor, offering a deeply personal yet sweeping portrait of a nation and a boy caught in the grip of history. Considered a landmark of Dutch-language literature, this *Bildungsroman* is an unforgettable exploration of innocence lost and the enduring sorrow of a nation.

Available Editions

paperback edition cover

paperback

Penguin Books Ltd

Published May 30, 1991

624 pages

ISBN: 9780140097153

available

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Details

First Published

1983

Language

eng

Translation

From: dut

Content Warnings

Content and trigger warnings for The Sorrow of Belgium by Hugo Claus.

War/Trauma
Death/Grief
Racism/Discrimination