Vlaamse vergezichten

Boekentoren and KANTL, in collaboration with De Bezige Bij Publishers, are organising the book presentation of Vlaamse vergezichten by Erwin Mortier on 11 and 12 December.

Erwin Mortier's Vlaamse Vergezichten is a rich book: a tribute to his literary and artistic predecessors, an expression of gratitude to those who shaped him, and a search for our shared origins – for who we have become and who we could be. At the same time, it reads like a long love letter to his first home: the landscape in and around the Land of Nevele, the banks of the Leie and the sultry city of Ghent.

Vlaamse vergezichten meanders past reed beds and textile factories, working-class neighbourhoods, writing rooms and country houses. According to De Volkskrant, he rolls out his Vergezichten 'like a colourful carpet for the reader'.

On 11 and 12 December, Professor Yves T’Sjoen will guide the author and audience through this vast panorama. For the occasion, the University Library will display several original documents from its treasure trove, sources of inspiration for Mortier’s vocal landscape.

Program for the evening:

• 7.30 p.m.
• 8 p.m. Welcome by Hendrik Defoort
• Prof. Yves T'sjoen in conversation with Erwin Mortier
• Questions from the audience

Estimated end time around 9 p.m.

Before and after the conversation, visitors can view the exhibition, which features literature discussed in the book. The evening will conclude with a reception. During the reception, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase a coppy of Vlaamse vergezichten and have it signed by the author.

About the author

Erwin Mortier (1965) is known for his refined style and sensitivity to language. He made his debut in 1999 with Marcel. Award-winning novels such as Godenslaap (God's Sleep) and Gestameld liedboek (Stammered Songbook) confirmed his talent. His work explores themes such as memory, loss, love and the interaction between personal and collective history, often in extremely sensual language.