De Avonden

"De Avonden" is one of the most important books in Dutch literature; it has become a classic as a poignant description of the dullness that gripped the Netherlands in the postwar years. Frits van Egters reflects the youth, who sees his life unfold in meaninglessness, monotony, and loneliness. Humor and the hope that a higher and greater Something exists keep him going. The voices of horror expressed about this book, for example, by Godfried Bomans, who believed that Reve's mental health "is in serious danger if this condition continues," have since been strongly contradicted by the many for whom "De Avonden" is the most beautiful book they have ever read.