Joost ZwagermanThe Penguin Book of Dutch Short Stories (Penguin Modern Classics)

Joost Zwagerman's The Penguin Book of Dutch Short Stories is a thoughtfully curated anthology that offers a rare glimpse into the richness of Dutch literary tradition. Zwagerman, a prominent Dutch writer, meticulously selected these 36 stories to represent the most intriguing and significant short fiction from the Netherlands. The anthology spans nearly a century, with works ranging from 1915 to 2014, many of which are translated into English for the first time. This collection not only showcases the diversity of Dutch storytelling but also highlights the country's unique literary landscape.A Century of Dutch VoicesThe anthology is a condensed version of Zwagerman's earlier work, Dutch and Flemish Literature from 1880 in 250 Stories, originally published in 2005. While that collection provided an extensive overview, the English-language edition focuses more narrowly, presenting a selection that captures the essence of Dutch short fiction. It includes pieces by renowned authors like Harry Mulisch and Jan Wolkers, alongside lesser-known voices such as Maarten ’T Hart and Sanneke van Hassel, offering a comprehensive introduction to Dutch literature for English-speaking readers.Themes and HighlightsMuch of the anthology explores significant historical events, particularly the impact of World War II and the Netherlands' colonial past. For instance, Harry Mulisch’s “What Happened to Sergeant Massuro?” is a haunting tale set during the Netherlands’ involvement in New Guinea, depicting a soldier’s mysterious illness. Bob den Uyl’s “War is Fun” provides a child's perspective on the German invasion in 1940, blending innocence with the harsh realities of war.The anthology also delves into the surreal and the eccentric. Wolkers’ “Feathered Friends” tells a bizarre story of a man feeding his wife’s remains to seagulls, while Oek de Jong’s “The Motionless Man” explores a character's desire to live without moving. Manon Uphoff’s “Poop” intriguingly examines human nature through its odd focus on excrement, presenting a unique and somewhat unsettling perspective.Exploring Dutch Themes and IdentityJoost Zwagerman, in his introduction, emphasizes the Dutch fascination with the blurry line between reality and delusion, a theme that permeates many of the stories. He suggests that Dutch writers often explore how delusion can erode the boundary between fantasy and reality, ultimately offering readers an unfiltered look into authentic Dutch lives.While the collection provides a compelling overview of Dutch literary themes, it is important to note that it is not intended as a comprehensive reflection of Dutch culture. Instead, it offers a selection of stories that have significantly impacted the Dutch literary landscape. The stories included reflect a range of styles and themes, from the historical and melancholic to the quirky and humorous.A Diverse Literary LandscapeDespite its strengths, the anthology is not without limitations. Some readers may find that it lacks contemporary voices and stories that address current issues in Dutch society. The collection also exhibits a certain lack of diversity in terms of gender and racial representation, which might limit its appeal to those seeking a broader spectrum of perspectives. Additionally, having multiple translators for the stories can sometimes lead to a lack of cohesion in the language, though the translations generally succeed in capturing the unique voices of the original authors.An Editor’s LegacyJoost Zwagerman’s commitment to Dutch literature is evident in his careful selection and presentation of these stories. His introduction reflects his passion for the Dutch literary tradition and his desire to share it with a wider audience. Tragically, Zwagerman passed away before the anthology was published, and his introduction includes a poignant reflection on the challenges of translating Dutch literature and the ever-evolving nature of the language.ConclusionThe Penguin Book of Dutch Short Stories is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring Dutch literature. It provides a rich and varied collection of stories that capture the essence of Dutch storytelling, from its historical contexts to its more whimsical and surreal elements. While the collection may have some limitations, it remains an excellent starting point for readers seeking to delve into the world of Dutch short fiction.For those curious about Dutch literature, Zwagerman’s anthology offers an enlightening journey through a century of storytelling, presenting a diverse array of voices and styles that collectively paint a vivid portrait of Dutch literary tradition. It’s a significant contribution to the landscape of translated literature and a testament to the depth and diversity of Dutch fiction.In summary, The Penguin Book of Dutch Short Stories stands as a testament to the richness of the Dutch short story tradition and its ability to capture the complexities of human experience in concise and impactful ways. This anthology is a must-read for enthusiasts of the short story form and those interested in the literary culture of the Netherlands.