De modderen man

poetry by Woestijne

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July 15, 2026

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De modderen man (The Man of Mud) is a significant poetry collection by Flemish poet Karel van de Woestijne, published in 1920. This work is considered a symbolic autobiography and represents a bitter climax in Van de Woestijne's exploration of the conflict between the spiritual and the sensual.1

The poetry in De modderen man powerfully conveys the spirit's struggle for liberation from the body's desires. It is a key piece within European Symbolism, showcasing Van de Woestijne's evolution from early, melancholic themes to more contemplative and ascetic expressions.1

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Karel van de Woestijne
…reaches a bitter climax in De modderen man (1920; “The Man of Mud”) and still resonates in the more subdued Het berg-meer (1928; “The Mountain Lake”). His poetry—powerfully conveying the spirit’s longing for liberation from the compulsive desires of the flesh—ranks among the finest achievements of European Symbolism.
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…reaches a bitter climax in De modderen man (1920; “The Man of Mud”) and still resonates in the more subdued Het berg-meer (1928; “The Mountain Lake”). His poetry—powerfully conveying the spirit’s longing for liberation from the compulsive desires of the flesh—ranks among the finest achievements of European Symbolism.
Read More