Small Souls by Louis Couperus is a beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Set in the late 19th century Netherlands, the story follows the lives of two young siblings, Paul and Nora, as they navigate the challenges and uncertainties of growing up in a stifling and oppressive society.

The author adeptly captures the inner turmoil and struggles of the characters, especially the two young protagonists, who are both fraught with conflicting desires and uncertainties about their futures. Torn between societal expectations and their own yearnings for freedom and independence, Paul and Nora grapple with their own identities and desires as they try to find their place in the world.

Couperus's prose is rich and evocative, bringing the world of 19th-century Netherlands to vivid life. His descriptions are full of detail and insight, painting a portrait of a society on the brink of change, where old traditions clash with new ideas and values.

Overall, Small Souls is a poignant and thought-provoking read that explores themes of love, duty, and the constraints of society. Couperus's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of the human experience.

Book Description:
Constance van der Welcke returns to the Hague and the bosom of her family after a twenty year exile caused by a marital indiscretion and divorce from the Dutch ambassador to Rome. Wanting only to be accepted into the family circle again, Constance and her husband Henri find they are the target of gossip that pulls the family apart. As the facade of the family circle begins to crack, the psychological foibles of the brothers and sisters begin to reveal themselves. Small Souls is the first of four novels that make up the quartet known as 'The Books of the Small Souls', the master work of the foremost author of modern Dutch literature, Louis Couperus. Although the 'The Books of the Small Souls' remain popular in the Netherlands, Alexander Teixeira de Mattos' excellent English translation has long been out of print. . De Kleine Zielen