Hugo Claus Book order

Beautifully translated from the Dutch by David Colmer, the IMPAC Award-winning translator of Gerbrand Bakker’s The Twin, Hugo Claus’s poems are remarkable for their dexterity, intensity of feeling, and acute intelligence. From the richly associative and referential “Oostakker Poems” to the emotional and erotic outpouring of the “mad dog stanzas” in “Morning, You,” from his interpretations of Shakespeare’s sonnets to a modern adaptation of a Sanskrit masterpiece, this volume reveals the breadth and depth of Claus’s stunning output. Perhaps Belgium’s leading figure of postwar Dutch literature, Claus has long been associated with the avant-garde: these poems challenge conventional bourgeois mores, religious bigotry, and authoritarianism with visceral passion.

Set against the backdrop of post-war Flemish fascism, the narrative follows Victor, a troubled teacher drawn to a mysterious woman in a secluded castle. There, he encounters a group of individuals clinging to their past collaboration with the Nazis. As Victor's grip on reality weakens, he masquerades as an authority on their missing leader, whose return they eagerly anticipate. The novel's intricate prose and deep emotional resonance explore the characters' moral complexities, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.

The collection features three early plays by Hugo Claus, showcasing his talent for creating compelling characters ensnared by societal constraints. In Bride in the Morning, Sugar, and The Sacrament, protagonists grapple with intense sexual and creative desires that defy societal norms. Their pursuit of forbidden love leads to conflict and ultimately their downfall, highlighting themes of repression and the consequences of defying social expectations. Claus's works are noted for their boldness and emotional depth, solidifying his status as a significant figure in Dutch literature.