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Kees van Beijnum‘s memoir “Hier komt de zon” Explores Childhood on Amsterdam’s Red Light District
Dutch author Kees van Beijnum’s latest book, “Hier komt de zon” (Here Comes the Sun), offers a deeply personal and autobiographical account of his childhood growing up on the Wallen, Amsterdam’s red-light district, in the 1960s. The memoir details a challenging upbringing marked by his mother’s tumultuous relationships and the unique environment of the area. The book follows his previous work, “Dichter op de Zeedijk,” which also explored his early life in Amsterdam.
A Difficult Childhood
Van Beijnum’s memoir doesn’t shy away from portraying the difficulties he faced as a child. He candidly describes his mother’s struggles and the constant presence of different men in their lives. According to reviews, the book portrays a mother figure who was often absent or preoccupied, leaving a lasting impact on Van Beijnum. Trouw notes the raw honesty of the narrative, prompting readers to reflect on the complexities of mother-son relationships.
exploring the Wallen in the 1960s
“Hier komt de zon” provides a vivid depiction of the Wallen in the 1960s, a period of critically important social change. Van Beijnum’s writing offers a unique perspective on this historically significant area of Amsterdam, moving beyond the typical portrayals often found in media.