Author
Frederik van Eeden
1860-1932
Frederik van Eeden (1860-1932) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Books by Frederik van Eeden
The Quest The authorized translation from the Dutch of De kleine Johannes
"The Quest" by Frederik van Eeden is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young boy named Little Johannes as he embarks on a fantastical quest filled with enchantment and wonder. A blend of fairy tale and philosophical exploration, the narrative unfolds in a richly imagined world where Johannes interacts with intriguing characters, including an ethereal being named Windekind, who becomes his companion and guide. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to Little Johannes, who lives in an old house surrounded by a lush garden that he has transformed into a magical place filled with adventure. As Johannes explores his environment, his vivid imagination allows him to think of his surroundings as a grand realm. One particular evening, he encounters Windekind, a brilliant manifestation of nature, who takes him on marvelous adventures filled with whimsical and profound discoveries. The opening chapters reveal Johannes' longing for deeper understanding and connection to his world, establishing themes of curiosity and the quest for knowledge that intertwine throughout the narrative.
The Bride of Dreams
"The Bride of Dreams" by Frederik van Eeden is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the introspective journey of Muralto, an elderly man reflecting upon his life experiences, particularly focusing on themes of love, desire, and the nature of truth as perceived through memory and desire. The story intricately weaves his childhood memories, familial conflicts, and evolving understanding of womanhood and romance, all set against a backdrop of societal expectations and personal struggles. At the start of the novel, Muralto describes his quaint coastal town, once vibrant and full of life, but now a faded relic of its former glory, mirroring his own introspection about life and identity. He reveals his backstory as the son of Italian aristocrats, contrasting the grandeur of his youth with the struggles he faces in his current life. As he recounts formative moments, including his relationship with his parents and first experiences of romantic longing—particularly for a girl named Emmy Tenders—the narrative delves into the complexities of love and desire. The opening portrays Muralto's deep analytical thoughts and confrontations with societal and personal dualities, setting the stage for a rich exploration of human emotions and existential inquiries.
Little Johannes
"Little Johannes" by Frederik van Eeden is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Johannes who lives in a large old house filled with mystery and imagination, accompanied by his father, a dog named Presto, and a cat named Simon. This tale is a blend of fairy tale elements and a deep exploration of childhood wonder, as Johannes yearns for adventure and seeks to understand the world around him. The opening of "Little Johannes" introduces the protagonist living in an enchanting yet complex old house surrounded by a beautiful garden. Johannes engages his vivid imagination by naming the various rooms and places within the garden, turning them into magical realms filled with adventure. As he explores, he expresses a desire for miracles and deeper understanding. One evening, while gazing at a magical sunset, Johannes encounters Windekind, a fairy-like being who becomes his friend. Windekind guides Johannes into a world of nature and magic, promising friendship and adventures beyond his wildest dreams, setting the stage for the unfolding of their enchanting journey together.
De kleine Johannes
"The Little Johannes" by Frederik van Eeden is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Johannes, who lives in an old house with a vast garden filled with secrets and wonders. His explorations in this magical world lead him on adventures filled with fantastical encounters, highlighting his deep connection with nature and the enchantment that surrounds his youthful imagination. The opening of the book introduces Johannes and sets the stage for a whimsical narrative. Johannes is depicted as a curious and imaginative child, exploring his environment, naming the various places he discovers, such as the "paradise" with its serene pond. He shares his home with his father, a wise man, and his beloved pets, Presto the dog and Simon the cat. The tone is delightfully innocent and dreamlike, establishing a bond between Johannes and the magical elements of his surroundings. The narrative suggests that his adventures will lead him to fantastical beings, including a character named Windekind, who implies a deeper connection to the natural world and invites Johannes to explore beyond the mundane. This enchanting and introspective opening hints at a journey of discovery that combines elements of fantasy with profound reflections on childhood and nature.
Dante en Beatrice, en andere verzen
"Dante en Beatrice, en andere verzen" by Frederik van Eeden is a collection of poetic verses written in the early 20th century. The opening sections explore themes of love, beauty, and longing, centering around Dante Alighieri's first encounter with Beatrice, the muse who profoundly influenced his work. The poems intertwine personal reflections with Dante's idealization of Beatrice, reflecting the complexity and depth of human emotion. The beginning of the text evokes a vivid imagery of childhood innocence and deep affection through the depiction of a young Beatrice, described in a red dress, surrounded by her playful companions. The narrator reminisces about the intense feelings stirred by her beauty and the life-altering impact of their encounters, revealing the weight of unrequited love and nostalgia. Amidst this narrative, there are philosophical musings about love's essence, its transient beauty, and the timeless nature of these emotions, laying the groundwork for contemplative explorations that characterize the rest of the collection.