Last collection of books

A Posthumous Confession

1894, Marcellus Emants

The novel is a psychological exploration of a man's inner turmoil and existential despair, presented as a confessional narrative. The protagonist, a disillusioned and introspective man, reflects on his life filled with moral ambiguity, failed relationships, and a pervasive sense of isolation. Throug

Verses

1890, Herman Gorter

The book is a collection of evocative and lyrical poetry that explores themes of nature, love, and the human experience. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poems capture the beauty and complexity of the world, reflecting on the interplay between the external environment and internal emot

Abele Spelen

1350, Unknown

The book is a collection of medieval Dutch plays that are among the earliest known secular dramas in the Dutch language. These plays, characterized by their lively dialogue and vivid depiction of everyday life, offer a glimpse into the social and cultural dynamics of the time. They explore themes su

Strophic Poems

1250, Hadewijch

"Strophic Poems" is a collection of mystical poetry that explores themes of divine love and spiritual longing. The poems are characterized by their lyrical beauty and intricate structure, reflecting the deep emotional and spiritual experiences of the author. Through vivid imagery and passionate lang

Terug Tot Ina Damman

1934, Simon Vestdijk

The novel explores the introspective journey of a young boy named Anton Wachter as he navigates the complexities of adolescence and first love in a small Dutch town. Through Anton's eyes, readers experience his deep infatuation with his classmate, Ina Damman, and the emotional turmoil that accompani

Groot Lied Boeck

1622, G. A. Bredero

The "Groot Lied Boeck" is a collection of poems and songs that reflect the vibrant cultural and social life of the Dutch Golden Age. Through a blend of humor, satire, and poignant observation, the work captures the essence of everyday life in Amsterdam during the early 17th century. The collection s

Verzamelde Gedichten

1979, Ida Gerhardt

This collection is a profound exploration of themes such as nature, spirituality, and the passage of time, expressed through a rich tapestry of poetic language. The poems reflect a deep connection to the natural world, often drawing on imagery from landscapes and seasons to convey emotions and insig

The Stone Bridal Bed

1959, Harry Mulisch

The novel explores the themes of guilt, memory, and redemption as it follows the journey of Norman Corinth, an American World War II veteran who returns to Dresden, Germany, years after participating in its bombing. Corinth grapples with the moral implications of his actions during the war and encou

Kees The Boy

1923, Theo Thijssen

The book is a charming and insightful exploration of childhood, capturing the everyday adventures and inner world of a young boy growing up in early 20th-century Amsterdam. Through the eyes of the protagonist, readers experience the joys, challenges, and innocence of youth, as well as the social dyn

Nearer To Thee

1966, Gerard Reve

The book delves into the complex inner world of a man grappling with existential questions and personal turmoil. Through a series of introspective reflections and vivid memories, the protagonist confronts themes of faith, love, and mortality. The narrative weaves between moments of dark humor and pr

Little Johannes

1887, Frederik van Eeden

The story follows a young boy named Johannes as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Guided by a series of mystical and allegorical figures, Johannes navigates the complexities of life, nature, and human emotion. Throughout his adventures, he encounters various challenges and

Bint

1934, F. Bordewijk

The book is a compelling exploration of power dynamics and psychological manipulation set in a rigid educational environment. It follows the story of a young girl who becomes entangled in the oppressive and authoritarian world of her school, where the headmaster exerts an overwhelming influence over

Country Of Origin

1935, E. du Perron

The novel explores the complexities of identity and belonging through the experiences of a young man of mixed European and Indonesian heritage living in colonial Indonesia. As he navigates the societal expectations and racial tensions of the time, he grapples with his own sense of self and the cultu

Character

1938, F. Bordewijk

The novel is a compelling exploration of the complex relationship between a young man and his estranged father set in early 20th-century Rotterdam. The protagonist, a determined and ambitious lawyer, struggles to overcome the oppressive influence of his father, a ruthless and domineering bailiff. As

Little Titans

1918, Nescio

The book is a collection of interconnected stories that explore the lives of a group of young, idealistic friends in early 20th-century Amsterdam. These characters, filled with dreams and aspirations, grapple with the realities of adulthood, societal expectations, and the passage of time. Through th

Nederlandsche Historien

1642, P. C. Hooft

The book is a comprehensive historical account detailing the political, social, and military events of the Dutch Republic during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. It meticulously chronicles the Eighty Years' War, highlighting the struggle for independence from Spanish rule and the rise of the

Soft Soap

1931, Willem Elsschot

The book is a satirical novel that delves into the world of advertising and business, exploring themes of deception and manipulation. It follows the protagonist, an advertising executive, as he navigates the morally ambiguous landscape of his profession, where charm and cunning are often more valuab

Small Souls

1901, Louis Couperus

The novel delves into the intricate dynamics of a Dutch bourgeois family, exploring themes of societal expectations, personal ambitions, and the complexities of human relationships. It follows the protagonist's return to his hometown, where he becomes entangled in the lives of his relatives, each gr

The Freeloader

1916, Nescio

The book explores the life of a young Dutch artist who struggles with his ideals and ambitions in the face of societal expectations and personal limitations. Set in early 20th-century Amsterdam, the protagonist grapples with the tension between his desire for artistic freedom and the practicalities

Chapel Road

1953, Louis-Paul Boon

The novel is a richly woven tapestry of life in a Flemish working-class neighborhood, capturing the struggles, dreams, and desires of its inhabitants. Through a blend of realism and surrealism, the narrative explores themes of poverty, social change, and the quest for meaning amidst the mundane. The

The Spanish Brabanter

1617, G. A. Bredero

The story is a comedic play set in Amsterdam, revolving around the misadventures of a cunning and opportunistic Spaniard who arrives in the city seeking fortune. Through a series of humorous and satirical encounters, the protagonist attempts to deceive various townspeople, highlighting themes of gre

Lucifer

1654, Joost van den Vondel

The play is a dramatic retelling of the biblical story of the fall of Lucifer, exploring themes of pride, ambition, and rebellion. It delves into Lucifer's internal conflict and his eventual decision to lead a revolt against God, driven by his desire for power and recognition. The narrative examines

The History Of Miss Sara Burgerhart

1782, Aagje Deken

The novel follows the life of a young woman, Sara Burgerhart, as she navigates the challenges of love, society, and personal growth in 18th-century Netherlands. Through a series of letters exchanged between Sara and her friends, family, and suitors, the story explores themes of morality, independenc

May

1889, Herman Gorter

The book is a lyrical and evocative poem that captures the essence of spring, celebrating the beauty and renewal of nature. It explores themes of love, transformation, and the passage of time, weaving together vivid imagery and emotional depth. The poem reflects on the interplay between the natural

Mary Of Nijmegen

1475, Unknown

The book is a medieval Dutch miracle play that tells the story of a young woman named Mary who is seduced by the devil disguised as a nobleman. After succumbing to temptation and abandoning her virtuous life, Mary is ultimately saved through the intervention of the Virgin Mary, who guides her back t

Uit Hoofts Lyriek

1636, P. C. Hooft

The book is a collection of lyrical poetry that captures the essence of Dutch Renaissance literature, showcasing themes of love, beauty, and nature. Through elegant and expressive language, the poems reflect the cultural and intellectual vibrancy of the era, while also exploring personal emotions an

Beyond Sleep

1966, W.F. Hermans

The novel follows the journey of a Dutch geologist named Alfred Issendorf, who embarks on an expedition to the desolate landscapes of Norway in search of meteoric craters. Driven by a desire to prove himself and escape the shadow of his deceased father, Alfred faces numerous challenges, including ha

Charles And Elegast

1250, Unknown

In this medieval Dutch tale, a noble knight is unexpectedly visited by an angel who commands him to embark on a secret mission. Despite his initial reluctance, the knight sets out on a nocturnal adventure, during which he encounters Elegast, a former friend turned outlaw. Together, they uncover a si

Beatrijs

1374, Unknown

The story is a medieval Dutch narrative poem about a nun who abandons her convent to pursue a romantic relationship with her former lover. After living a secular life for several years and bearing two children, she faces hardship and poverty, prompting her to repent and seek forgiveness. Miraculousl

The Darkroom Of Damocles

1958, W.F. Hermans

Set during World War II in the Netherlands, the novel follows Henri Osewoudt, a timid tobacconist who becomes embroiled in the Dutch resistance after meeting the enigmatic Dorbeck, a man who looks strikingly similar to him. As Osewoudt undertakes dangerous missions against the Nazis, he grapples wit

Gijsbrecht Van Aemstel

1637, Joost van den Vondel

The play is a classic Dutch tragedy that dramatizes the historical siege and fall of Amsterdam in the 14th century. It follows the titular character, a nobleman, as he grapples with betrayal, loss, and the struggle to protect his city from invaders. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, patrioti

The Evenings

1947, Gerard Reve

Set in post-World War II Amsterdam, the story follows ten days in the life of a disenchanted young man named Frits van Egters. As he navigates the monotony of his daily routine, Frits grapples with existential angst and a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction. Through a series of mundane interactions w

Against Elections

2013, David Van Reybrouck

The book critiques the current state of democratic systems, arguing that the reliance on elections has led to widespread political dissatisfaction and dysfunction. It explores the historical development of democracy and suggests that the overemphasis on electoral processes has resulted in a disconne

Love Is A Dog From Hell

1977, Charles Bukowski

This book is a raw and unfiltered collection of poems that delve into the complexities of love, loneliness, and the human condition. Through vivid imagery and candid language, the author explores themes of desire, heartbreak, and the gritty realities of life. The poems capture the tumultuous nature

Neon Gods

2021, Katee Robert

In this modern retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth, a young woman named Persephone finds herself entangled in a dangerous and seductive underworld ruled by the enigmatic Hades. Fleeing from an unwanted engagement orchestrated by her powerful mother, Persephone seeks refuge in Hades' domain, w

Machiavelli

1532, Niccolò Machiavelli

The book is a seminal work of political philosophy that explores the dynamics of power, leadership, and statecraft. It provides pragmatic advice to rulers on how to maintain control over their states, emphasizing the importance of realism over idealism. The author argues that a successful leader mus

Hitler And Stalin

1991, Alan Bullock

The book provides a comparative analysis of the lives and regimes of two of the 20th century's most notorious dictators, Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin. It delves into their rise to power, the ideologies they championed, and the methods they employed to maintain control over their respective countri

The Reactionary Mind

2011, Corey Robin

The book explores the evolution of conservative thought, arguing that it is fundamentally a reaction to progressive movements and social change. It examines how conservative thinkers and politicians have historically sought to preserve existing hierarchies and power structures, often by adapting rev

Globalists

2018, Quinn Slobodian

The book examines the evolution of neoliberal thought and its impact on global governance throughout the 20th century. It explores how a group of intellectuals and economists sought to protect global capitalism from the perceived threats of democracy and nationalism by advocating for institutions th

The Free World

2021, Louis Menand

The book explores the cultural and intellectual history of the United States and Western Europe during the Cold War era, focusing on the period from the late 1940s to the early 1970s. It examines how art, literature, philosophy, and politics intersected and influenced each other in a rapidly changin

Time Of The Magicians

2018, Wolfram Eilenberger

The book delves into the transformative period of philosophy during the early 20th century, focusing on the lives and ideas of four influential thinkers: Ludwig Wittgenstein, Martin Heidegger, Ernst Cassirer, and Walter Benjamin. It explores how their groundbreaking work and personal struggles shape

The Murder Of Professor Schlick

2020, David Edmonds

The book delves into the intriguing history of the Vienna Circle, a group of intellectuals and philosophers in early 20th-century Vienna who were pivotal in the development of logical positivism. It explores the life and tragic murder of one of its leading figures, Professor Moritz Schlick, against

Exact Thinking In Demented Times

2017, Karl Sigmund

The book delves into the lives and intellectual contributions of the Vienna Circle, a group of philosophers and scientists in early 20th-century Vienna who sought to establish a scientific worldview grounded in logical positivism. Through a detailed exploration of the Circle's key figures, including

Liberalism

2006, Domenico Losurdo

The book offers a critical examination of liberalism, challenging its traditional narrative by exploring its historical contradictions and complexities. It delves into the dual nature of liberalism, highlighting how its principles of freedom and equality often coexisted with practices of exclusion,

The Robber Girl

2021, Franny Billingsley

The story follows a young girl known only as the Robber Girl, who has been raised by a notorious bandit in a harsh, lawless environment. As she navigates a world filled with danger and uncertainty, she grapples with her own identity and the moral complexities of her upbringing. When she is captured

The Age Of The Crisis Of Man

2015, Mark Greif

The book examines the mid-20th-century intellectual and cultural discourse surrounding the concept of "man" and humanity's existential crises. It explores how writers, philosophers, and thinkers grappled with the challenges of modernity, including war, technological advancement, and social change, a

The Making Of Europe

1993, Robert Bartlett

The book explores the transformative period in European history from the 10th to the 13th centuries, examining how a distinct European identity emerged through processes of conquest, colonization, and cultural exchange. It delves into the expansion of Latin Christendom, the spread of feudal structur

Mock

2013, Marek Krajewski

Set in the gritty and atmospheric backdrop of 1930s Breslau, the story follows the complex and morally ambiguous detective Eberhard Mock as he navigates a web of crime, corruption, and personal demons. Tasked with solving a series of gruesome murders, Mock delves into the city's underbelly, encounte

View With A Grain Of Sand

1995, Wislawa Szymborska

This collection of poems offers a profound exploration of the human experience, blending wit, irony, and philosophical insight. The poet delves into themes such as the passage of time, the nature of reality, and the intricacies of everyday life, often highlighting the contrast between the mundane an

House Of Day, House Of Night

1998, Olga Tokarczuk

The novel weaves together a tapestry of interconnected stories set in a small Polish village, blending elements of folklore, history, and modern life. Through a series of vignettes, it explores the lives of various characters, each grappling with their own struggles and desires, while also delving i

Mercedes Benz

1995, Paweł Huelle

The novel is a reflective and nostalgic journey through the streets of Gdańsk, as the narrator, a driving instructor, shares stories with his student during their lessons. Through these anecdotes, the narrator delves into his past, exploring themes of memory, history, and the passage of time. The st

Native Realm

1959, Czesław Miłosz

The book is a reflective memoir that explores the complex interplay of identity, culture, and history through the lens of the author's personal experiences. It delves into the tumultuous events of 20th-century Europe, particularly focusing on the impact of war, political upheaval, and shifting borde

They Were Divided

1940, Miklos Banffy

Set against the backdrop of a crumbling Austro-Hungarian Empire on the brink of World War I, the story delves into the lives of aristocratic families grappling with political upheaval and personal turmoil. The narrative intricately weaves themes of love, betrayal, and societal change as characters n

Omon Ra

1992, Victor Pelevin

The novel is a satirical exploration of the Soviet space program through the eyes of Omon, a young man who dreams of becoming a cosmonaut. As he progresses through the rigorous training and eventually embarks on a mission to the moon, Omon discovers the grim reality behind the facade of Soviet techn

Ploile Amare

2011, Alexandru Vlad

The book delves into the complexities of human relationships and the passage of time in a small Transylvanian village. Through a series of interconnected stories, it explores themes of memory, loss, and the enduring impact of the past on the present. The narrative weaves together the lives of variou

The Book Of Whispers

2009, Varujan Vosganian

The novel weaves a poignant tapestry of memory and history, exploring the impact of the Armenian Genocide on subsequent generations. Through a blend of personal recollections and historical narrative, it delves into the collective trauma and resilience of the Armenian people. The story is rich with

Viață și Cărți. Amintirile Unui Cititor De Cursă Lungă

2016, Nicolae Manolescu

The book is a reflective memoir that delves into the life and experiences of a dedicated reader and literary critic. It offers an insightful journey through the author's personal and professional encounters with literature, highlighting the profound impact that books have had on shaping his worldvie

The Children's Crusade

2005, Florina Ilis

The novel weaves a complex narrative that explores the lives of a group of children who embark on a spontaneous and symbolic journey, reflecting the historical Children's Crusade. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Romania, the story delves into themes of innocence, rebellion, and the impact o

Simion Liftnicul

2001, Petru Cimpoeșu

The novel is a satirical exploration of life in a Romanian apartment building during the final years of the communist regime. It follows the story of Simion, a lift operator who becomes an unexpected spiritual guide for the building's residents. Through a series of humorous and poignant interactions

Tortura Pe înțelesul Tuturor

2001, Florin Constantin Pavlovici

The book is a poignant memoir that delves into the harrowing experiences of the author during his imprisonment in communist Romania. Through vivid and often unsettling narratives, it explores the brutal realities of life under an oppressive regime, highlighting the psychological and physical torture