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Hermelijn

By van Java Melati
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About This Book

A young woman departs Amsterdam on a long steamship voyage to the East Indies; the narrative follows the crossing and early days in colonial society, detailing passengers' farewells, onboard routines, and conversations that reveal hopes, regrets, and social expectations. Through descriptions of landscapes, shipboard life, and everyday interactions, the work examines migration, longing for home, the tension between personal desire and social duty, and the place of a young woman navigating unfamiliar social hierarchies. Scenes alternate between intimate interior moments and broader observations of movement, class, and belonging.

About the Author

Melati, van Java portrait

van Java Melati

Melati van Java was a Dutch author known for her contributions to historical fiction and romantic literature, particularly focused on the history and culture of Java. Her notable works include "Hermelijn," which explores themes of love and sacrifice, and "In Extremis," which delves into the complexities of human emotions in dire circumstances. Additionally, her book "Van Slaaf tot Vorst: Historisch Romantische Schets uit de Geschiedenis van Java" offers a narrative that intertwines personal stories with the broader historical context of Java, showcasing her ability to blend romance with historical detail. Through her writings, Melati van Java has left a distinctive mark on the literary landscape of her time.

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In Extremis cover In Extremis by van Java Melati Van Slaaf tot Vorst: Historisch Romantische Schets uit de Geschiedenis van Java cover Van Slaaf tot Vorst: Historisch Romantische Schets uit de Geschiedenis van Java by van Java Melati