The Twilight Of The Souls (1917)

Set in the early 20th century, the novel delves into the lives of two Dutch brothers, Vincent and Pieter van der Welcke, each grappling with personal struggles. Vincent, a haunted artist, and Pieter, a greedy businessman, find their lives intertwined when Vincent is commissioned to paint Pieter's wife, Ada. Their relationship spirals into jealousy and betrayal, prompting deep reflections on mortality and the fragility of human connections. Couperus's lyrical prose vividly captures the essence of a society in turmoil, making this work a significant piece of Dutch literature.